My Spine - Cervical
The operating microscope
Many operations to the spine require that the different types of tissue are magnified so that the specialist can discern the nerves from the other tissues . Some specialists use operating loupes , which are special glasses that have telescope-like lenses that magnify the tissue . Other specialists use an operating microscope , which is a large machine that both illuminates the tissue and also magnifies the tissue more than an operating loupe .
The theatre table
Most spinal specialists will use a specially designed theatre table made out of carbon-fibre , which is designed to allow the specialist to use the C-arm to see the vertebrae and any instrumentation used , without interference from the metal of an ordinary operating table . There are movable pads for the patient to lie on so that they do not develop pressure sores .
The table is also adjustable at different angles and heights to assist the specialist to see the tissues of the spine more clearly and to operate in a comfortable position .
The diathermy machine
The diathermy machine is used to coagulate bleeding blood vessels and is used to dissect tissues with . It makes use of an electrical current and can generate enormous amounts of heat at the tip of the working probe .
The cell saver
In long and complicated spinal procedures or procedures in which moderate to severe blood-loss is expected , a cell saver may be used . This is a device that is connected to the suction unit and all the blood that is sucked up during the procedure is washed inside the machine in a saline solution and impurities are removed . The blood can then be given straight back to the patient through the drip .
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