Spinal surgery
Spinal surgeries are aimed at the surgical treatment of spinal diseases and injuries that do not respond to conservative treatment. These procedures help relieve nerve compression and stabilize the spine, improving the patient’s quality of life and functionality.
When to see a specialist
- Disc prolapse (herniated disc): Which causes severe pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs and does not respond to conservative treatment.
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal): Which compresses the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, and difficulty walking.
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage): Which causes pain and neurological symptoms.
Common symptoms
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Loss of bladder or bowel control
This is an acute condition that requires urgent medical attention. -
Pain radiating to the limbs
Arms or legs (e.g., sciatica). -
Persistent or worsening pain in the back, neck, or limbs
Especially if the pain radiates to the arm or leg and does not respond to conventional treatment. -
Urinary or bowel dysfunction with back pain
Especially if numbness in the perineal area is added, this may indicate cauda equina syndrome and requires urgent evaluation. -
Weakness, numbness, or sensation problems in a limb
Especially if the symptoms are persistent or getting worse.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Bring your ID card or another identification document.
- Inform the doctor in advance about the use of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, Marevan, fish oil capsules), as well as allergies and other regularly taken medications, so that the doctor can advise you on taking medications – blood-thinning medications should not be used for at least 5 days before coming to the surgery. Bring regularly taken medications with you or take them as advised by the doctor.
- Before surgery performed under local anesthesia, you can eat and drink normally.
- Before surgery performed under general anesthesia, you must not eat for 6 hours and drink for 4 hours before the planned surgery. If you have not followed these rules, the surgery may be canceled for your safety.
- Before surgery, the surgical area will be shaved at the clinic if necessary. Do not shave the area yourself at home to reduce the risk of infection.
- Visit the dentist – oral diseases can cause complications.
- Before surgery, you may need to change into surgical clothing provided by the clinic.
- Come to the surgery only when completely healthy. Inform the clinic if you have fallen ill.
What to expect during your appointment
Pre-operative assessment
A spinal surgeon will assess your condition and confirm the surgical plan.
Anesthesia
Spinal surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia.
Surgical procedure
The surgeon will perform the necessary operation.
Wound closure
The wound will be closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.
Post-operative monitoring
After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room to ensure a stable condition and pain control.
Rehabilitation
Post-operatively, early mobilization and physiotherapy will be initiated to restore mobility and strength.
Specialists providing this service
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dr Raul LaasikOrthopedist – spine surgeon
Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health
Payment & Appointment Info
Prices
Tallinn
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Herniated intervertebral disc operation The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 3600 € |
| Operation for narrowing of the lumbar canal, or spinal stenosis The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 4900 € |
Everywhere else in Estonia
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Herniated intervertebral disc operation The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 3600 € |
| Operation for narrowing of the lumbar canal, or spinal stenosis The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 4900 € |
Payment methods
Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Inpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
Referral
An appointment with a specialist is required first to assess whether the service is suitable or necessary.
Clinics offering this service
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Open
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of anesthesia is used for spinal surgeries?
Spinal surgeries are usually performed under general anesthesia.
Will post-operative scars be visible?
Every surgical procedure leaves a scar. Surgeons try to place scars in the least noticeable areas. The final appearance of scars also depends on individual factors and aftercare.
Are operations performed at Meliva?
Yes, if necessary and indicated, we can perform a wide variety of operations at Meliva, both under local anesthesia and general anesthesia. We perform day surgery at Meliva Rävala clinic.