Spine Health and Diseases

About the Department

Our department specializes in the management of all disorders involving the complex structure of the spine. Whether dealing with congenital anatomical issues or degenerative diseases caused by aging or trauma, our clinic adopts the most up-to-date medical approaches. Acting with the vision of being one of the reference centers in the field of Istanbul spine surgery, we always prioritize the safety and comfort of our patients.

Conditions Diagnosed and Treated in Our Department

There are many different conditions that affect spine health. The main diseases successfully diagnosed and treated in our clinic include:

Scoliosis (Spinal Curvature)

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine to the right or left. While a healthy spine appears as a straight line when viewed from behind, a spine with scoliosis has an S or C-shaped curve. This condition usually becomes prominent with rapid growth during adolescence. In addition to idiopathic scoliosis, whose exact cause is unknown, there are also congenital or neuromuscular types of scoliosis caused by muscle and nerve diseases. In our clinic for scoliosis treatment in Istanbul, care is meticulously planned according to the degree of curvature and the patient's age.

Spinal Stenosis (Narrowing of the Spinal Canal)

This is the narrowing of the spinal canal through which the spinal cord and nerve roots pass. This narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and difficulty walking in the legs. It usually occurs as a result of degenerative changes in the spine with aging, such as calcification and herniation. Spinal stenosis treatment aims to improve the patient's quality of life and prevent neurological deficits.

Spondylolisthesis (Slipped Vertebra)

The forward slipping of one vertebra over the vertebra below it is called spondylolisthesis. This slippage can lead to the compression of nerve roots and severe lower back pain. It can occur due to age-related wear and tear, stress fractures, trauma, or congenital anomalies. Our patients usually present with lower back pain that increases with standing and numbness radiating to the legs. In our clinic, spondylolisthesis surgery and non-surgical treatment options are successfully applied.

Osteoporosis (Bone Loss)

Osteoporosis, commonly known as bone loss, is a disease in which bones become more fragile as a result of decreased bone density. It is especially common in women during the postmenopausal period and significantly increases the risk of spinal fractures. This disease, which usually progresses silently, can manifest itself in advanced stages with a shortening of height and hunchback (kyphosis).

Diagnostic Methods

Accurate treatment begins with a precise and early diagnosis. In our clinic, in addition to a detailed physical examination, advanced imaging methods are utilized to diagnose spinal diseases. Thanks to our digital X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Computed Tomography (CT) devices, the spine, discs, and nerve roots are examined with millimetric precision. For our patients suspected of having osteoporosis, bone mineral density measurement (DEXA) is performed to evaluate bone health in detail.

Treatment Methods and Applications

In the treatment of spinal disorders at our hospital, our priority is to use non-surgical (conservative) methods whenever possible. However, in cases requiring surgical intervention, the most innovative and safe techniques are preferred.

Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) for Scoliosis

This is an innovative and fusionless surgical method used in the treatment of scoliosis, especially in growing children. While vertebrae are fixed with metal rods in traditional spinal curvature surgery methods, spinal mobility is preserved in vertebral body tethering. A flexible cord (tether) passed through screws placed on the convex side of the spine uses the spine's growth potential to correct the curvature over time. This allows the spine to maintain its flexibility, and the patient can return to daily life much faster.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cells are master cells found in the body that have the potential to repair damaged tissues. In spine health, they are used especially in the treatment of joint calcification and cartilage damage. Stem cells taken from the patient's own body (bone marrow or adipose tissue) are separated in a laboratory environment and injected into the damaged area to accelerate the natural healing process.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

The vast majority of spinal diseases can be controlled with medication, the use of special corsets, epidural steroid injections, and personalized physical therapy programs. Our aim is to relieve your pain and strengthen the muscles around your spine without the need for surgery.

Surgical Treatments

Surgical intervention may be required for patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, have progressive neurological deficits, or whose quality of life is severely affected. Laminectomy (canal widening), decompression, and fusion (stabilization) surgeries are performed with great precision by our expert surgeons.

Technology and Our Team

Spine surgery is a field that requires high precision and advanced technology. As BHT CLINIC, we actively use microsurgery techniques and neuromonitoring systems in our operating rooms. Neuromonitoring minimizes the risk of nerve damage by allowing real-time monitoring of spinal cord and nerve functions during surgery. Our team, consisting of experienced surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room nurses, works in coordination to keep patient safety at the highest level before, during, and after the operation.

When Should You Visit the Spine Health Department?

When spinal problems are noticed early, the treatment process is much easier and more successful. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it is recommended that you apply to our department without delay:

• Severe and continuous lower back or neck pain that does not resolve with rest
• Pain, numbness, and tingling sensations radiating to the arms or legs
• Increasing weakness and cramping in the legs when walking or standing
• Asymmetrical posture of the shoulders, shoulder blades, or hips
• Noticeable curvature or hunching in the back area
• Loss of balance, difficulty walking, or weakening in fine motor skills

Appointment and Examination Process

Do not postpone your spine health. You can consult our expert team for an accurate diagnosis and the creation of the most appropriate treatment plan for you. To benefit from the modern medical facilities offered by our hospital and to be examined, you can easily complete your process through our appointment page or contact us via our 24/7 call center. We are by your side as you step into healthy and pain-free days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is scoliosis surgery risky?

While every surgical intervention carries certain risks, today, thanks to advanced technologies such as neuromonitoring, spine and scoliosis surgeries are performed quite safely. This technology allows us to monitor the condition of the nerves in real time during the surgery.

Does a herniated disc always require surgery?

No, the vast majority of herniated disc cases can heal with non-surgical methods such as medication, rest, and physical therapy. Surgical options are only considered for patients with progressive nerve damage, loss of strength, and severe pain.

What is the recovery process like after spine surgery?

The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery performed. In modern methods like microsurgery and vertebral body tethering, patients are usually discharged within a few days and can return to their daily lives in a short time. Physical therapy programs accelerate healing.

Who is a candidate for vertebral body tethering (VBT)?

Vertebral body tethering is a fusionless method generally preferred for growing children and adolescents whose bone development is not yet complete, in order to preserve the flexibility of the spine.

What happens if spinal stenosis is left untreated?

Untreated spinal stenosis can lead to a shortened walking distance, permanent loss of strength in the legs, and a severe decline in quality of life due to increased pressure on the nerves. In advanced cases, urinary control problems may also occur.