Month: July 2025

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Neuro Surgeon Spine Specialist

When to See a Neurologist vs a Neurosurgeon: Key Differences for San Antonio Patients

Neurosurgeon in San Antonio TX

Navigating neurological symptoms can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure whether to consult a neurologist or a Neurosurgeon in San Antonio, TX. Should you see a doctor for those persistent headaches or wait until the pain becomes unbearable?

Understanding the difference between these two medical specialists can significantly impact the outcome of your treatment.

Suppose you’re based in San Antonio, TX, or nearby areas like Live Oak, New Braunfels, or Seguin. In that case, you have access to exceptional neurological and neurosurgical care at the Brain and Spine Institute of San Antonio (Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas), led by Dr. Osama Ahmed, a Board-certified neurosurgeon in San Antonio, TX.

What Does a Neurologist Do?

A neurologist is a physician who specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves—without surgery. Their primary role is to manage conditions through medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle adjustments.

Common Conditions Treated by Neurologists:

  • Migraines and chronic headaches
  • Epilepsy and seizures
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Neuropathy and nerve disorders
  • Alzheimer’s and other dementias
  • Stroke recovery and rehabilitation

Neurologists typically conduct tests such as EEG (electroencephalogram), MRI, CT scans, and nerve conduction studies to determine your condition.

What Does a Neurosurgeon Do?

A neurosurgeon is a medical doctor trained to perform surgeries on the brain, spine, and nerves. While many people associate neurosurgeons with complex brain surgery, a large portion of their work involves spinal procedures.

At Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Osama Ahmed is known for pioneering Minimally invasive spine surgeries in San Antonio, including robotic OLIF, OptiLIF, and Spine Jack procedures.

Conditions Commonly Treated by Neurosurgeons:

  • Herniated discs and spinal stenosis
  • Brain and spinal tumours
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Aneurysms and vascular malformations
  • Spinal fractures and deformities
  • Trigeminal neuralgia and Chiari malformation

Neurosurgeons often use MRI, CT scans, and other imaging techniques to evaluate structural issues that require surgical correction.

Symptoms That Require a Neurologist

You should consider seeing a neurologist if you’re experiencing:

  • Recurrent or severe headaches
  • Seizures or blackout episodes
  • Numbness or tingling in limbs
  • Muscle weakness
  • Memory loss or confusion
  • Balance and coordination issues

These symptoms often signal underlying neurological disorders that may respond well to non-surgical treatment. 

Symptoms That Require a Neurosurgeon

Consult a neurosurgeon if:

  • You have persistent back or neck pain unrelieved by medication
  • Imaging shows a herniated disc or spinal compression
  • You experience a sudden loss of bowel or bladder control
  • You’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumour
  • You’ve had a spinal fracture or traumatic brain injury

In such cases, prompt surgical evaluation could prevent permanent damage.

Neurologist vs Neurosurgeon: Who Treats What?

Condition Neurologist Neurosurgeon
Seizures ✅ ❌
Brain Tumour ✅ (Diagnosis) ✅ (Surgery)
Herniated Disc ❌ ✅
Chronic Headaches ✅ ❌
Stroke ✅ Sometimes
Spine Fracture ❌ ✅

Do They Work Together?

Yes, neurologists and neurosurgeons often collaborate. A neurologist may diagnose a condition and then refer the patient to a neurosurgeon if surgical intervention is required. After surgery, the patient might return to the neurologist for long-term medical management.

At Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas, this collaborative model ensures that patients receive end-to-end care, from diagnosis to recovery.

Why Choose Dr. Osama Ahmed First?

Patients in San Antonio often begin their journey with Dr. Osama Ahmed due to his ability to handle both diagnostics and surgery under one roof. Here’s why he’s a preferred provider:

  • Board-certified neurosurgeon with advanced training
  • Pioneering robotic and minimally invasive spine surgeries
  • Over 5,000 successful procedures
  • Short wait times and insurance-friendly options
  • Multiple clinic locations across San Antonio and Live Oak

Dr. Ahmed and his team at Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas are committed to personalised, compassionate, and evidence-based care.

Still Not Sure Who to See?

If you’re experiencing neurological symptoms and are unsure whether you need surgery, the best first step is a comprehensive evaluation. At Brain and Spine Institute of San Antonio, we streamline your care journey—so you get the proper treatment at the right time.

???? Call today to schedule your appointment: (210) 625-4733

???? FAQs

Q1: Can I visit a neurosurgeon directly without seeing a neurologist first?

Yes, especially if you’re experiencing severe symptoms like back pain, weakness, or a known spinal issue. Dr. Osama Ahmed provides direct consultations.

Q2: Are neurologists and neurosurgeons both available at Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas?

A board-certified neurosurgeon leads Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas. For non-surgical conditions, we coordinate care with trusted local neurologists.

Q3: What is the difference in treatment between the two?

Neurologists focus on medications and therapy. Neurosurgeons handle surgical treatments. Some patients need both, depending on their diagnosis.

Q4: Do I need a referral?

While many insurance plans require referrals, our office can help verify your coverage—call (210) 625-4733 for insurance assistance.

Q5: Is surgery always necessary if I visit a neurosurgeon?

No. Many patients at Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Texas are treated non-surgically first. Surgery is only recommended when truly necessary.

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Neuro Surgeon Spine Specialist

Lumbar Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion: Which Offers Better Long-Term Relief?

Lumbar Disc Replacement

Back pain—especially in the lower back—can significantly affect your quality of life. For patients suffering from degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or spinal instability, two standard surgical solutions are often considered: Lumbar Disc Replacement (LDR) and Spinal Fusion. Both procedures aim to relieve pain and restore function, but they differ in surgical technique, recovery time, and long-term outcomes.

If you’re in Gonzales or Luling, TX, and exploring your options, understanding the difference between disc replacement and spinal fusion is essential for making an informed decision. This guide from Dr. Osama Ahmed, a renowned Neurosurgeon at the Brain and Spine Institute of San Antonio, will help you weigh the pros and cons of each procedure.

Understanding the Spine and Lumbar Disc Issues

The lumbar spine (lower back) is made up of five vertebrae (L1–L5) and intervertebral discs that act as cushions. These discs allow for movement and absorb shock. However, due to ageing, injury, or degenerative diseases, these discs can wear out or herniate, causing:

  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Numbness or weakness in the legs
  • Decreased mobility

When conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections fail, surgery becomes the next step. 

What Is Lumbar Disc Replacement (LDR)?

Lumbar disc replacement, also called lumbar artificial disc replacement, involves removing a damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial one made from metal and polymer. The goal is to maintain natural movement in the spine while eliminating the pain caused by the damaged disc.

Benefits of Lumbar Disc Replacement

  • Preserves spinal motion
  • Reduces the risk of adjacent segment degeneration
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster recovery in many cases 

Ideal Candidates

  • Younger or middle-aged patients with single-level disc disease
  • No significant facet joint arthritis
  • No spinal instability or deformity

Suppose you’re looking for a Surgeon for a lumbar artificial disc in Luling or Gonzales. In that case, Dr. Osama Ahmed offers in-depth diagnostics and minimally invasive surgical expertise at the Brain and Spine Institute in San Antonio, TX.

What Is Spinal Fusion?

Spinal fusion involves removing the damaged disc and permanently joining two or more vertebrae using bone grafts, screws, and rods. This eliminates movement at the affected segment to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

Benefits of Spinal Fusion

  • Strong stabilisation of the spine
  • Effective for patients with spinal deformity, instability, or severe arthritis
  • Long history of successful outcomes
  • Can be performed at multiple levels 

Ideal Candidates

  • Patients with degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal stenosis
  • Individuals who don’t qualify for disc replacement
  • Patients with osteoporosis or prior spine surgeries

For residents of Luling or Gonzales in need of a highly experienced neurosurgeon, Dr. Osama Ahmed brings years of experience in both fusion and disc replacement surgeries. 

Clinical Comparison: Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion

Feature Lumbar Disc Replacement Spinal Fusion 

When comparing lumbar disc replacement to spinal fusion, several clinical differences stand out.

Lumbar disc replacement is designed to preserve natural motion in the spine, making it an ideal choice for patients who want to maintain mobility. In contrast, spinal fusion eliminates movement at the treated segment by fusing two vertebrae, which often results in reduced mobility post-surgery.

One of the key benefits of disc replacement is that it places less stress on adjacent discs, thereby reducing the risk of degeneration in nearby spinal levels. Spinal fusion, however, tends to increase adjacent disc risk over time due to the immobility it creates in the fused segment.

In terms of recovery, patients undergoing lumbar disc replacement typically heal faster, with most returning to daily activities within 6 to 12 weeks. Spinal fusion patients often face a more extended recovery period, ranging from 3 to 6 months, as the bone graft needs time to solidify fully.

While reoperation rates can be slightly higher with disc replacement—particularly in the long term—spinal fusion usually has lower reoperation rates, mainly when used to treat conditions like spinal instability or deformity.

Another key consideration is the suitability for multilevel procedures. Lumbar disc replacement is typically performed at a single level. It is rarely used for multilevel disc disease, whereas spinal fusion can be successfully applied to multiple levels of the spine.

When it comes to long-term pain relief, both procedures are adequate. However, disc replacement offers excellent results for select patients, particularly those with isolated disc degeneration and no instability. Spinal fusion, on the other hand, is known for its reliable and consistent pain relief, especially in complex spinal conditions.

In summary, while disc replacement provides better post-operative mobility, spinal fusion remains the preferred option for patients with more extensive degeneration, instability, or multilevel spinal issues. A detailed consultation with a skilled neurosurgeon like Dr. Osama Ahmed can help determine which surgical path offers the best long-term outcome for your individual needs.

Patient Perspective: Recovery and Quality of Life

Recovery After Lumbar Disc Replacement

Patients undergoing lumbar disc replacement often resume daily activities within 6–12 weeks. Physical therapy begins early to help restore mobility, and many report a quick return to work and exercise. 

Risks and Considerations

Disc Replacement Risks

  • Implant failure or dislocation
  • Continued pain if the facets are damaged
  • Not suitable for multilevel disc disease 

Spinal Fusion Risks

  • Adjacent segment disease
  • Longer healing time
  • Possible need for additional surgeries in future

Dr. Osama Ahmed always conducts a thorough evaluation, including imaging and physical assessments, to determine the best surgical path. As a leading Neurosurgeon Gonzales, his expertise ensures that every patient gets a customised treatment plan. 

Who Should You Trust With Your Spine Surgery in Gonzales or Luling?

Choosing the right spine surgeon can make a significant difference in your outcome. At the Brain and Spine Institute of San Antonio, Dr. Osama Ahmed combines evidence-based practices with cutting-edge surgical techniques, offering:

  • Minimally invasive procedures
  • State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging
  • Personalised care plans
  • Convenient access for patients in Gonzales and Luling

???? Call (210) 625-4733 today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Which is better: lumbar disc replacement or spinal fusion?

It depends on your condition. If preserving motion and quicker recovery are priorities, and you have no spinal instability, disc replacement may be better. If you have more complex issues like spinal deformity or multilevel degeneration, spinal fusion might be the best option. 

  1. Is lumbar disc replacement safe?

Yes, when performed on suitable candidates, lumbar disc replacement has a high success rate and safety profile. Dr. Osama Ahmed ensures all surgical candidates undergo thorough pre-op screening.

  1. How long does the artificial disc last?

Modern artificial discs are built to last 15–20 years or more. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor their longevity and function. 

  1. Will I need physical therapy after surgery?

Yes. Both spinal fusion and disc replacement require post-operative physical therapy, though disc replacement patients usually start rehab earlier.

  1. Can both surgeries be done minimally invasively?

Yes, many spine surgeries today are minimally invasive, primarily when performed by a skilled neurosurgeon like Dr. Ahmed. This can lead to faster healing and less post-op pain.

  1. How do I know if I’m a candidate for disc replacement?

Book an evaluation with Dr. Osama Ahmed at the Brain and Spine Institute in San Antonio. He’ll review your history, conduct imaging, and determine if you’re an ideal candidate for lumbar artificial disc replacement.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing between lumbar disc replacement and spinal fusion, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of spinal condition, your age, activity level, and overall health all play critical roles.

Whether you’re from Gonzales, Luling, or nearby Texas communities, Dr. Osama Ahmed at the Brain and Spine Institute of San Antonio is ready to help you make an informed, confident decision for your spine health.

???? Schedule Your Consultation Today

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Neuro Surgeon Spine Specialist

Can Stress Affect Your Brain? The Neurological Impact of Chronic Stress

Neurologist in Stone Oak

In our ever-demanding world, daily stress feels nearly unavoidable. Whether it’s work, finances, relationships, or health concerns, the body and mind are constantly reacting to challenges. But what happens when stress is no longer a short-term reaction and becomes a chronic issue?

The brain, being the command centre of all bodily functions, is highly sensitive to stress. Emerging neuroscience reveals that chronic stress doesn’t just alter mood or sleep patterns—it can reshape brain structure, impair memory, and even increase the risk of neurological conditions.

Dr. Osama Ahmed, a renowned Board-Certified Neurosurgeon serving McAllen and the Brain and Spine Institute in San Antonio, Texas, sheds light on the intricate link between chronic stress and the brain, revealing how prolonged exposure can contribute to neurological disorders and memory impairment.

Understanding the Brain’s Response to Stress

Stress activates a survival mechanism in the body called the “fight or flight” response. This involves a release of hormones—primarily cortisol and adrenaline—that prepare the body to deal with immediate threats. While short bursts of this response are harmless, chronic activation leads to physical changes in the brain.

Key areas of the brain affected by stress include:

  • Hippocampus – responsible for memory formation. Chronic stress can shrink this area.
  • Amygdala – processes emotions such as fear. It can become overactive, heightening anxiety.
  • Prefrontal Cortex – governs decision-making and impulse control. Stress reduces its functionality.

Neurological Effects of Stress

  1. Memory Impairment and Cognitive Decline

One of the most common complaints from patients dealing with chronic stress is forgetfulness. Stress-related memory loss is a real phenomenon, particularly when cortisol levels remain elevated for prolonged periods.

“The hippocampus, vital for short- and long-term memory, is highly susceptible to stress hormones,” explains Dr. Osama Ahmed. “Over time, these effects accumulate, leading to decreased memory performance and even long-term cognitive decline.” 

  1. Increased Risk of Neurological Disorders

Research has found that long-term stress can contribute to a higher likelihood of:

  • Stroke
  • Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses

Patients who already suffer from neurological conditions may experience flare-ups or slower recovery when under persistent stress.

  1. Neuroinflammation and Brain Shrinkage

Stress can trigger an inflammatory response in the brain known as neuroinflammation. This can damage neural tissue, reduce synaptic connections, and even result in loss of grey matter, especially in the prefrontal Cortex and hippocampus. 

  1. Disrupted Neurotransmitter Balance

Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and GABA are crucial for regulating mood, promoting motivation, and inducing relaxation. Chronic stress depletes these chemicals, leading to:

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Lack of motivation or energy 

How Chronic Stress Manifests Neurologically

If you’re experiencing persistent stress, watch for these neurological symptoms:

  • Frequent headaches or migraines
  • Tingling sensations or numbness
  • Brain fog or confusion
  • Poor concentration
  • Muscle tension and tremors
  • Dizziness or balance issues

If these symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult a Neurologist in Stone Oak or McAllen, such as Dr. Osama Ahmed, to rule out underlying conditions.

The Link Between Stress and Spine Health

Chronic stress also has physical effects on the body, particularly the spine. Patients often report:

  • Neck and back pain
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Nerve pain triggered by muscle tension

This connection between neurological stress and spine issues is something the Brain and Spine Institute, located in San Antonio, Texas, specialises in managing.

Preventing the Neurological Impact of Stress

While stress may be unavoidable, its neurological impact can be managed and even prevented through proactive care:

  1. Early Evaluation by a Specialist

A board-certified neurosurgeon or neurologist can help assess the extent of stress-related neurological changes. Dr. Osama Ahmed offers comprehensive brain health evaluations at locations in San Antonio, Stone Oak, and McAllen. 

  1. Lifestyle Interventions
  • Exercise: Staying active elevates endorphins and fosters neurogenesis, helping maintain brain health.
  • Mindfulness/Meditation: Reduces cortisol and rebalances brain activity.
  • Healthy Diet: Supports neurotransmitter production and helps control inflammation.
  • Sleep: Vital for brain repair and emotional balance. 
  1. Medical Treatments and Therapies

Depending on the severity, treatment options may include:

  • Neurological medications
  • Ketamine infusions (for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety)
  • Neurofeedback therapy
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

At the Brain and Spine Institute in San Antonio, Texas, patients receive a multidisciplinary approach to brain health, combining neurosurgical expertise with integrative treatments.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing stress that interferes with your work, relationships, memory, or neurological health, don’t wait. A neurological consultation can help determine whether your symptoms are caused by stress or a more serious underlying medical issue.

Call (210) 625-4733 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Osama Ahmed, your trusted Board Certified Neurosurgeon in McAllen and Neurologist in Stone Oak. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can stress cause permanent damage to the brain? 

A: Long-term stress can impact the brain’s architecture and performance, notably affecting the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Over time, this may lead to memory loss, emotional instability, and cognitive decline. Early intervention can reduce the risk of permanent damage. 

Q2. What are the signs that stress is affecting my neurological health? 

A: Symptoms such as brain fog, poor memory, numbness, headaches, and mood swings may indicate neurological effects of stress. If these symptoms persist, consulting a neurologist is recommended. 

Q3. Can neurological symptoms from stress be reversed? 

A: In many cases, yes. With proper medical treatment, therapy, and lifestyle changes, the brain can recover. Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt—plays a vital role in healing. 

Q4. How is stress-related memory loss diagnosed? 

A: A neurologist may perform cognitive assessments, neurological exams, and brain imaging (MRI or CT scan) to evaluate the extent of memory impairment and rule out other causes. 

Q5. Should I see a neurosurgeon or a neurologist for stress-related symptoms? 

A: It depends on your symptoms. A neurologist in Stone Oak, like Dr. Osama Ahmed, can assess and manage brain function issues. At the same time, a Neurosurgeon in McAllen may be needed if structural problems (like spinal compression) are contributing to your symptoms. 

Conclusion: Protect Your Brain From Chronic Stress

Stress is a part of everyday life, but its neurological consequences can be severe. From memory loss to emotional imbalances and physical symptoms, stress can have a profound impact on your brain and spine. Fortunately, with early detection and expert care, you can reclaim control of your brain health.

The Brain and Spine Institute, located in San Antonio, Texas, and led by Dr. Osama Ahmed, offers the latest advancements in neurological evaluation and treatment, serving patients in San Antonio, McAllen, and the Stone Oak area. 

Need Expert Help with Stress-Related Brain Symptoms?

???? Visit Dr. Osama Ahmed, Board Certified Neurosurgeon and Neurologist Serving McAllen, Stone Oak, and San Antonio, Texas

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Neuro Surgeon Spine Specialist

Is Cervical Spine Surgery Safe? What the Latest Research Says

Cervical Spine Surgery in San Antonio

Cervical spine surgery has long been a topic of concern for many patients suffering from neck pain, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or nerve compression. While any spinal procedure sounds serious, the safety and effectiveness of cervical spine surgery have significantly improved over the years. With cutting-edge technology, experienced spine surgeons, and minimally invasive techniques, patients now have access to safer procedures and better outcomes than ever before.

If you’re considering Cervical Spine Surgery in San Antonio, it’s essential to understand what modern research says about its safety, recovery, and long-term success.

Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery 

Cervical spine surgery focuses on addressing issues in the neck portion of the spine, such as:

  • Herniated or degenerative discs
  • Cervical spondylosis
  • Cervical spinal stenosis
  • Fractures or trauma
  • Myelopathy (compression of the spinal cord)

Common procedures include:

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
  • Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)
  • Posterior Cervical Laminectomy or Foraminotomy

The goal is to relieve nerve compression, stabilise the spine, and restore mobility, all while minimising pain and neurological deficits. 

What Does the Latest Research Say About Safety? 

Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and preoperative imaging, the safety profile of cervical spine surgery has never been better. 

✅ Low Complication Rates 

According to a comprehensive study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, ACDF and cervical disc replacement procedures have a complication rate of under 2% in healthy patients. The most common risks—like infection, nerve injury, or bleeding—are rare when a skilled and experienced spine surgeon performs surgery.

✅ Minimally Invasive Technology

Modern cervical spine surgery can now be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic tools, smaller incisions, and image guidance systems. These approaches result in:

  • Less tissue damage
  • Reduced blood loss
  • Lower risk of infection
  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster recovery times

At the Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio, Dr. Osama Ahmed utilises these state-of-the-art technologies to ensure precision and safety in every surgery.

✅ Enhanced Imaging and Navigation

The use of intraoperative 3D imaging, robot-assisted systems, and neuromonitoring has drastically improved surgical accuracy. These tools help surgeons avoid critical nerve structures and make real-time decisions during the procedure, adding a further layer of safety and confidence. 

Benefits of Cervical Spine Surgery with an Expert 

Choosing a Spine Specialist near you in San Antonio, Dr. Osama Ahmed, gives patients access to:

  • Comprehensive diagnostics
  • Personalised treatment plans
  • High success rates
  • Multidisciplinary care
  • Post-operative rehabilitation

Patients often experience dramatic relief from pain, numbness, and weakness following surgery, with improvements in their overall quality of life.

How Safe Is Cervical Spine Surgery in Older Adults? 

Age is often a factor that patients worry about. However, studies show that cervical spine surgery is safe even in elderly populations, provided proper medical clearance is given.

A 2023 study in the Global Spine Journal reviewed outcomes in patients aged 65 and older and found no significant increase in surgical risks compared to younger patients, mainly when minimally invasive methods were used. 

Is Cervical Disc Replacement Safer Than Fusion? 

Both ACDF and Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) are considered safe, but newer evidence suggests that ADR may offer additional benefits, including:

  • Preservation of natural movement
  • Lower risk of adjacent segment disease
  • Quicker recovery times

ADR may not be suitable for everyone, but Dr. Osama Ahmed carefully evaluates each case at his Spine Surgery Clinic in San Antonio to determine the most appropriate and safest approach for you. 

Recovery and Long-Term Safety 

Most patients can resume light activities within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, with complete recovery typically achieved within a few months.  Long-term outcomes are generally excellent:

  • Success rates for ACDF exceed 90% in terms of pain relief and function.
  • Complications like chronic pain or adjacent level disease occur in a small minority and are often manageable.
  • With adherence to post-op rehab and guidance, reoperation rates are low. 

How to Improve Surgical Safety as a Patient 

Your role as a patient is crucial to ensuring a safe and successful outcome. Here’s how:

  • Choose a board-certified spine surgeon like Dr. Osama Ahmed.
  • Stop smoking, as it impairs healing.
  • Follow all preoperative instructions, including stopping certain medications.
  • Attend all post-op appointments and physical therapy sessions. 

At the Brain and Spine Institute in San Antonio, Texas, your health and safety come first. Dr. Osama Ahmed and his dedicated team provide:

  • State-of-the-art surgical care
  • Modern facilities with intraoperative imaging
  • Advanced minimally invasive procedures
  • Holistic recovery plans including physiotherapy
  • Compassionate, patient-centred care

Whether you’re dealing with chronic neck pain, nerve symptoms, or a herniated disc, you’re in expert hands. 

FAQs:

Q1: Is cervical spine surgery painful? 

A: Most patients experience discomfort after surgery, but modern pain management techniques and minimally invasive methods help significantly reduce post-operative pain. 

Q2: How long is the recovery from cervical spine surgery? 

A: Recovery times vary. Most patients can resume daily activities in 2–4 weeks. Full recovery can take up to 3 months.

Q3: What are the risks of cervical spine surgery? 

A: Risks include infection, nerve damage, bleeding, or non-union of the fusion site, but these are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon. 

Q4: Will I lose mobility after cervical spine fusion? 

A: Some neck stiffness is expected, but most patients retain excellent functional mobility, especially if only one level is fused.

Q5: Who should consider cervical disc replacement over fusion? 

A: Patients without advanced arthritis or deformity may benefit from disc replacement, which preserves more natural movement.

Q6: How do I know if I need surgery? 

A: If conservative treatments fail after 6–12 weeks or if you have progressive neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, loss of function), surgery may be indicated.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Spine

If you’re experiencing ongoing neck pain, numbness, or reduced mobility, don’t delay care. The safety of cervical spine surgery has never been more assured, thanks to modern advancements and expert surgical teams like the one led by Dr. Osama Ahmed at the Brain and Spine Institute San Antonio.

???? Call (210) 625-4733 today to schedule your consultation and explore your treatment options with a top-rated Spine Specialist near you in San Antonio.

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