Woman suffering from neck pain and upper back pain

Degenerative Spine Surgery

Advanced Surgical Solutions for Spinal Stability & Pain Relief

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What Is Degenerative Spine Surgery?

Degenerative spine surgery encompasses a range of procedures designed to treat spinal conditions caused by age-related wear and tear, such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and facet joint degeneration. These procedures relieve pressure on spinal nerves, restore stability, and reduce chronic pain.

Whenever possible, Mr Gordan Grahovac prioritises non-surgical treatments before recommending surgery. His patient-first approach ensures that physiotherapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications are explored before considering surgical intervention.

Who Benefits from Degenerative Spine Surgery?

This type of surgery is recommended for patients experiencing:

  • Chronic back or neck pain that does not respond to conservative treatments.

  • Nerve compression symptoms, including numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.

  • Spinal instability caused by degenerative disc disease or facet joint deterioration.

  • Limited mobility and stiffness affecting daily activities.

  • Progressive spinal deformities, such as spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis.

Each case is carefully assessed to determine the most suitable surgical approach for long-term spinal health and pain relief.

Surgical Procedures for Degenerative Spine Conditions

  • Microdiscectomy


    A minimally invasive procedure to remove herniated disc material pressing on spinal nerves.

    How it works: A small incision is made to access the affected disc, and the herniated portion is carefully removed to relieve nerve compression.

    Conditions it treats: Herniated discs, sciatica, and nerve compression.

    Recovery time: Most patients resume normal activities within 6–12 weeks.

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  • Laminectomy


    A surgical procedure that removes the entire lamina to relieve spinal cord compression.

    How it works: The affected lamina is removed, creating more space within the spinal canal to reduce pressure on nerves.

    Conditions it treats: Spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and degenerative spine disorders.

    Recovery time: Full recovery may take 8–12 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery.

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  • Foraminotomy/Foraminectomy


    Widening of the foramen (nerve passageways) to relieve nerve compression.

    How it works: Small amounts of bone and tissue are removed to widen the neural foramen, reducing pressure on spinal nerves.

    Conditions it treats: Foraminal stenosis and pinched nerves.

    Recovery time: Most patients return to light activities within 6–8 weeks.

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  • Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion


    Decompression surgery with spinal fusion to stabilise the cervical spine.

    How it works: The lamina is removed to relieve pressure, and spinal fusion is performed to maintain stability.

    Conditions it treats: Cervical spinal stenosis and nerve compression.

    Recovery time: Full recovery typically takes 3–6 months.

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  • Cervical Disc Replacement (CDR)


    A motion-preserving alternative to spinal fusion that replaces a damaged disc with an artificial one.

    How it works: The affected disc is removed and replaced with an artificial implant, maintaining flexibility in the spine.

    Conditions it treats: Degenerative disc disease and chronic disc-related pain.

    Recovery time: Most patients recover within 8–12 weeks, with continued improvement over several months.

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  • Lumbar Discectomy


    Relieves nerve compression by removing the portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on nearby spinal nerves.

    How it works: A small incision is made in the lower back and the herniated part of the lumbar disc is carefully removed. This relieves pressure on the affected nerve root, helping to reduce leg pain and weakness.

    Conditions it treats: Lumbar disc herniation causes nerve compression that presents with leg pain or weakness ( sciatica/radiculopathy)

    Recovery time:
    Most patients recover within 6–12 weeks, depending on the extent of nerve recovery.

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Recovery & Long-Term Results

Recovery from degenerative spine surgery varies based on the procedure performed, the number of treated vertebrae, and adherence to post-operative care. Mr Gordan Grahovac provides a structured recovery plan to support healing and optimise long-term spinal function.

  • Most patients are discharged within 24–72 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

    • Pain management includes prescribed medications and anti-inflammatory treatments.

    • Patients should avoid excessive bending, twisting, and heavy lifting.

    • Light movement, such as short walks, is encouraged to support circulation and healing.

    • Physiotherapy begins within a few weeks to restore strength, mobility, and posture.

    • Postural correction and ergonomic adjustments help prevent future strain on the spine.

    • Most patients resume light activities and work within 6–12 weeks.

    • High-impact activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for up to 3–6 months, depending on recovery progress.

    • Significant pain relief from nerve compression and spinal instability.

    • Improved mobility and spinal function.

    • Reduced reliance on pain medications.

    • Enhanced quality of life with restored movement and flexibility.

woman stretching with daughter, recovering post spine surgery

Why Choose Mr Gordan Grahovac for Degenerative Spine Surgery?

Mr Gordan Grahovac, neurosurgeon london headshot

With over 20 years of experience, Mr Gordan Grahovac is a leading Consultant Neurosurgeon & Complex Spinal Surgeon in London specialising in degenerative spinal conditions. He is highly skilled in:

  • Minimally Invasive Techniques – Reducing recovery time, pain, and surgical risks.

  • Patient-Centred Treatment Plans – Tailoring every approach to individual needs.

  • Cutting-Edge Technology – Using advanced techniques for precision and effectiveness.

  • Holistic Recovery Approach – Combining surgery with non-invasive therapies for long-term spinal health.

His patient-first approach ensures the best possible outcomes by integrating precision surgery with conservative recovery strategies.

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What Patients Are Saying

Frequently Asked Questions: Degenerative Spine Surgery

  • No, many conditions can be managed with physiotherapy, pain management, and lifestyle changes. However, if symptoms persist, surgery may be required.

  • Many patients experience immediate symptom relief, while others notice gradual improvement over several weeks.

  • Most patients return to light activities within 6–12 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 6 months.

  • Yes, when performed by an experienced spinal surgeon like Mr. Grahovac, these procedures are highly safe and effective.

Take the First Step Towards a Pain-Free Life

Degenerative spine surgery provides long-term relief from chronic pain and spinal instability. If you're struggling with back or neck pain, expert spinal care from Mr Gordan Grahovac can help.

Book a consultation today to discuss whether degenerative spine surgery is right for you.

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