In many cases, spinal fusion is not necessary. Rather than eliminating motion through fusion, disc replacement preserves flexibility by implanting an artificial disc. Dr. Ashana uses advanced prosthetic materials to restore natural movement while relieving pain caused by damaged discs.

This minimally invasive procedure enlarges the opening where nerve roots exit the spinal canal, reducing pain and tingling caused by compression. It preserves motion and may serve as an alternative to full fusion surgery.

Standard posterior cervical approaches can be more invasive, often involving significant muscle dissection and bone removal. Dr. Ashana favors anterior approaches when appropriate, as they are generally less disruptive to surrounding tissues. When a posterior approach is necessary, he uses muscle-sparing, tubular techniques to access the spine and remove bone or tissue compressing the spinal cord. In many cases, fusion can be avoided; when needed, it can often be performed using minimally invasive methods to maintain stability.

Cervical laminoplasty creates more space for the spinal cord by reconstructing the lamina, the back portion of the spinal canal. Although the procedure requires muscle dissection, it preserves spinal mobility by avoiding fusion. This approach is often ideal for multilevel spinal stenosis when an anterior approach is not appropriate.