Spinal Disorders and Deformities

The Department of Neurosurgery is involved in the entire spectrum of spinal disorders, including development problems, trauma, tumor and degenerative disease. The department performs more than 800 spinal operations annually, working closely with all members of the neuroscience team to provide the latest alternatives to surgery. For example, Loyola University Health System (Loyola) is one of only a few centers nationally performing an outpatient procedure called vertebroplasty in which injections of methylmethacrylate paste prevent the vertebrae in the spinal column from collapsing due to osteoporosis or other bone-related disorders. Through the procedure, patients report relief from severe chronic back pain without the need for narcotic medications or major back surgery.

Minimally Invasive Computer-Assisted Spinal Fusion
Implementation of minimally invasive, computer-assisted spinal fusions has launched a new era in complex spine surgery. Acquisition of new surgical technology has enabled Loyola surgeons to expand this program. Surgeons use computer-assisted X-ray technology to see the patient’s spine through the skin. By making only small incisions, they can decompress spinal discs or implant instruments – such as screws and rods – to stabilize the spine. The minimally-invasive approach has improved patient outcomes and decreased hospital stays.

Scoliosis/Deformity Clinic
The Spinal Deformity and Scoliosis Clinic now performs 20 major cases per month to place stabilizing screws and rods. An increasing number of patients with spinal injuries and deformities are referred to Loyola’s neurosciences team each week. In 90 percent of cases, if the patient has no permanent damage to the nerves or spinal cord, the specialists can restore proper alignment and movement.

Spinal Cord Injury and Repair Laboratory
Basic research in the spinal cord injury repair laboratory involves exploration of novel treatments for craniocervical abnormalities, experimental transplantation of neurotrophils in spinal cord injury, stem cell transplants, and molecular events in the adult injured spinal cord.

Locations and Contacts
A full spectrum of neurological surgery services is available at:

Loyola Outpatient Center in Maywood
Oakbrook Terrace Medical Center

If you would like to make an appointment or need assistance to find an appropriate physician, please call us at (888) LUHS-888.

Related Links
Neurological surgery services