Learn about Spondylolisthesis Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Spondylolisthesis and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis surgery is a specialized spine procedure performed to correct the forward slippage of one vertebra over the one below it. This condition, often caused by degenerative changes, trauma, or a congenital defect, can compress nerves and cause significant back pain, leg pain (sciatica), numbness, or weakness. The primary goal of surgery is to stabilize the spine, decompress the affected nerves, and restore proper alignment. Common surgical techniques include spinal decompression (laminectomy) to relieve pressure on nerves, followed by spinal fusion, where the slipped vertebra is fused to adjacent vertebrae using bone grafts and implants like rods and screws. This procedure aims to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent further slippage, offering a long-term solution for patients who do not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication.

Key Highlights

    Alleviates chronic back and leg pain caused by nerve compression.Stabilizes the spine to prevent further vertebral slippage.Can restore mobility and improve overall quality of life.Offers a definitive solution when non-surgical treatments fail.Utilizes advanced techniques like minimally invasive surgery for faster recovery in select cases.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Severe, persistent back or leg pain that does not improve with conservative care (e.g., physical therapy, medications, injections).
  • Progressive neurological deficits, such as leg weakness, numbness, or loss of bowel/bladder control (cauda equina syndrome).
  • Significant vertebral slippage (usually Grade III or higher) visible on imaging studies like X-rays or MRI.
  • Progressive slippage observed over time in a growing child or adolescent.
  • Development of spinal instability or deformity that affects posture and walking.

How to prepare

  • Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, ECG, and imaging scans (X-ray, MRI, CT).
  • Discuss all current medications with your surgeon; you may need to stop blood thinners or NSAIDs several days before surgery.
  • Stop smoking well in advance, as it can significantly hinder bone healing and fusion.
  • Arrange for help at home during the initial recovery period for tasks like cooking and transportation.
  • Follow pre-operative fasting instructions (typically no food or drink after midnight before surgery).

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Infection, bleeding, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
  • Nerve injury, which could lead to persistent pain, weakness, numbness, or, rarely, paralysis.
  • Failure of the spinal fusion to heal properly (pseudarthrosis).
  • Hardware complications, such as breakage, loosening, or irritation from screws/rods.
  • Adjacent segment disease, where vertebrae above or below the fusion site experience increased stress and degeneration.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay typically involves 2-4 days for pain management, monitoring, and initial mobilization with physical therapy.
  • You will be given specific instructions on wound care and signs of infection to watch for.
  • Wearing a back brace may be recommended for several weeks to support the spine as it heals.
  • A structured physical therapy program is crucial, starting gently and gradually increasing in intensity over 3-6 months.
  • Avoid heavy lifting, twisting, and bending for the first 6-12 weeks; full recovery and fusion can take 6 months to a year.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 2-4 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; 6-12 months for full fusion

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering spondylolisthesis in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for spondylolisthesis compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 2,719 – USD 7,614 2-4 days ~ 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; 6-12 months for full fusion Know More
Turkey USD 20,131 – USD 56,368 2-4 days ~ 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; 6-12 months for full fusion Know More

Top hospitals for Spondylolisthesis in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated spine surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing spondylolisthesis.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
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