Comprehensive Spinal Care Unit

The Comprehensive Spine Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital treats patients with spinal conditions who require a specialist surgical assessment to precisely determine the most appropriate course of treatment and surgical approach for each individual case. It treats conditions affecting the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine using a structured clinical approach that prioritises safety, technical precision and the preservation of function.

The care model integrates, alongside surgery, specialised pain management and clinical follow-up, with the aim of optimising patient outcomes and recovery.

Specialist assessment of spinal conditions

The Unit is aimed at people with persistent back or neck pain, associated neurological symptoms or structural lesions confirmed by imaging tests that may require surgical treatment.

A specialist assessment is particularly recommended where there is nerve compression, loss of strength, sensory disturbances or progressive limitation of mobility.

The aim is to determine, using sound clinical judgement, when surgery is indicated and which technique offers the greatest safety and functional benefit in each individual case.

Spinal conditions requiring specialist assessment

Each case is assessed individually, taking into account the cause of the problem, its progression and the impact it has on the patient’s mobility and daily life.

Among the conditions that most frequently require expert assessment are:

• Cervical or lumbar disc herniation

• Spinal canal stenosis

• Vertebral fractures

• Spinal infections

• Vertebral or spinal cord tumours

The decision on treatment is always made following a thorough clinical assessment.

Clinical assessment and surgical planning

The process begins with a specialist consultation and a detailed review of diagnostic tests, including MRI and CT scans where necessary. The patient’s spinal anatomy, neurological status and general condition are assessed together.

Planning incorporates image-guided navigation systems and techniques that enable safe and precise surgical pathways to be defined. Where the case requires it, a consensus is reached within the team, involving specialists in radiology, rehabilitation, pain management and other relevant fields.

This methodology enables us to anticipate risks and define an individualised, well-founded surgical strategy.

Minimally invasive spinal surgery

When surgery is indicated, the Unit uses minimally invasive techniques that enable the treatment of various spinal conditions — such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, vertebral instability or certain tumour-related lesions — via small incisions, thereby minimising damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues.

This type of approach allows for greater precision and less invasive surgery, promoting a faster recovery and better tolerance of the procedure, with results comparable to those of conventional surgery in selected cases.

The use of advanced navigation technologies, intraoperative control and neurological monitoring helps to improve surgical safety and accuracy, particularly in complex procedures.

The decision to proceed with surgery is made only when the expected benefit justifies the procedure.

Pain management during surgery

Pain management forms part of the comprehensive approach to spinal conditions, particularly in patients requiring surgery or in those where the aim is to optimise clinical recovery.

The Unit incorporates specific strategies aimed at pain management prior to surgery, facilitating better patient preparation, as well as during the recovery process, enabling a more stable recovery and a faster return to functional activity.

These include specialised pharmacological treatment and image-guided interventional techniques, which are used selectively as part of a coordinated clinical plan.

Clinical follow-up and monitoring of progress

Follow-up is an essential part of the process, both for patients receiving conservative treatment and for those who have undergone surgery.

Follow-up appointments enable us to assess clinical progress, adjust treatment and detect any changes in the patient’s condition at an early stage. Pain management, functional recovery and spinal stability are monitored on an ongoing basis.

This approach allows the treatment strategy to be adapted over time.

Specialist care with support and the time to explain

Treating spinal conditions involves decisions that require understanding and time. From the very first consultation, the team takes the time needed to explain the diagnosis, the treatment options and the implications of each one.

Each patient understands the process, realistic expectations and the impact of the treatment on their daily life. Where there are different options, the decision is made jointly, weighing up the benefits, risks and individual preferences in a balanced way.

Support is provided throughout every stage of the process, with clear and accessible communication that enables patients to approach their treatment with greater confidence and peace of mind.