Complex Spine
Your spine naturally has a straight alignment when viewed from the back and a natural curve when viewed from the side. Minor deviations usually do not cause problems.
Some patients can develop a curve in their spine over time as they age with wear-and-tear. This degenerative scoliosis is different from those who are with or develop it in childhood.
Some patients can develop issues above or below prior operative levels that may need additional surgery.
Different combinations of factors can cause progression of curves, kyphosis, and imbalance of the spine leading to symptoms.
Treatments
Non-Operative Options
Observation
Physical Therapy
Injections with Pain Management
Medication (e.g., gabapentin)
Surgical Options
Due to wide variation of each patient’s issues and anatomy, different surgical approaches and combination of approaches can be performed to address the problem. It is best to review the images and surgical options with your surgeon to determine the best plan for you.
Meet Dr. Lee
Dr. Michaela Lee is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with expertise in complex spine and cerebrovascular surgery. She completed her residency and an enfolded complex spine fellowship at The George Washington University Medical Center, followed by advanced training in cerebrovascular and skull base surgery at Barrow Neurological Institute under Dr. Peter Nakaji.
After helping establish an academic neurosurgery department with Dr. Nakaji, she continues their partnership at Scottsdale Neurosurgery Specialists, where she is dedicated to delivering exceptional, patient-focused spinal care.
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• Learn More About Dr. Lee → Click Here