New back pain surgery could ‘change the game’ for sufferers

A new surgery could be the way forward for Australians suffering from serious back pain.

Neurosurgeon Marc Coughlan, who specialises in invasive spinal procedures, has led the charge in this new technique, which involves implanting artificial spacers into the spine.

The procedure can take a lot less time than a traditional surgery of its kind.

It is also far less invasive, as the surgeon enters through the patient's side and cuts through skin and muscle, in a lateral approach.

In contrast, a traditional anterior approach would involve cutting through the stomach.

Artificial 3D-printed spacers, or in many cases generic spacers, are placed in the space between the vertebrae of the spine.

"The beautiful thing about this technique is that because you're going through such a silent, non-eloquent part of the body in a way, that they just have very little post-operative pain," Dr Coughlan said.

"It is changing the game in terms of making it more readily available to sicker, older patients."

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 16 percent of Australians suffer from back pain.

This surgery is best suited for those with chronic pain, patients with scoliosis of the spine, or older, osteoporotic patients.

Barbara Johnston, 71, had severe lower back pain due to a slipped vertebra.

She underwent the surgery last week, and just seven days later, she told A Current Affair she was feeling better than she had in years.

"Even the nurses in the hospital this morning said, 'gosh, you're not the same woman'," she said.

"I don't feel 71! I know I am, but I don't feel it."

She said her pain had gone to from a 9/10 to a 2/10, and she was looking forward to going on a cruise with her husband Jim.

The surgery has a similar cost to a traditional operation of the same kind, but each case is different.

And every medical procedure has its risks.

"Nothing in medicine is always successful," Dr Coughlan said.

"I think you have to look at it realistically, the risk profile versus the benefits, and obviously any surgery is associated with risks.

"But once again, I stress it's for the right patients with a matching pathology."

People should always consult with their doctor to determine the best treatment or procedure for themselves.