Discectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain and discomfort caused by herniated discs in the spine. The procedure involves the removal of a portion of the intervertebral disc, which is the cushion-like structure located between the vertebrae. These discs serve as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing for flexibility and movement. However, when a disc becomes herniated, it can press on nearby nerves, leading to significant pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.

Laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the vertebra called the lamina. The lamina is a bony structure that forms the back part of the vertebra, and its removal creates more space within the spinal canal. This procedure is primarily performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, which can be caused by various conditions affecting the spine.

A VP shunt is a device that helps drain excess fluid from the brain caused by hydrocephalus, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the brain. This procedure involves the surgical placement of a flexible tube, or shunt, that diverts excess CSF from the ventricles of the brain to the peritoneal cavity in the abdomen, where it can be absorbed by the body. The VP shunt is designed to relieve pressure on the brain caused by the buildup of fluid, thereby preventing potential damage to brain tissue and alleviating symptoms associated with hydrocephalus.

A cisternogram is a special scan that helps doctors see how fluid flows around your brain and spinal cord. It uses a small amount of safe, radioactive dye to trace the movement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and detect any leaks or blockages. This diagnostic test involves the injection of a radioactive tracer into the CSF, typically through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The tracer allows for the assessment of CSF circulation and can help identify abnormalities in the central nervous system.

The EC-IC bypass, or extracranial-intracranial bypass, is a neurosurgical procedure designed to improve blood flow to the brain. This innovative technique involves creating a new pathway for blood to travel from the external carotid artery (located outside the skull) to the internal carotid artery (inside the skull). The primary purpose of the EC-IC bypass is to prevent or treat ischemic strokes, which occur when there is insufficient blood flow to the brain, leading to potential brain damage.