Ventspils hospital performs Baltic-first motion-preserving spine surgery

A regional hospital in Ventspils has performed a spine operation described as unprecedented in the Baltics, using a technique designed to stabilise the spine while preserving movement, LSM reported.

The hybrid procedure combines spinal stabilisation with a motion-preserving implant. It is performed through the abdominal cavity and requires a team that includes both a spine surgeon and a vascular surgeon.

The operation was performed on Renārs, a 41-year-old man from Liepāja who works as a bus driver and has five daughters. He had suffered back pain for several years, making daily activities and work difficult. Medication, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and injections brought only temporary relief. He had also undergone two back operations about 15 years ago.

The implant used in the procedure, the Signus Big ST + ESP, was made in France. LSM said the introduction and development of this approach in Latvia expands treatment options, particularly for younger patients seeking to return to active daily lives, work and sport.