Yury is a scientist who after feeling strange sensations in his legs decided to visit Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. It was discovered he had a DAVF, an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, but Washington University neurosurgeon Dr. Brenton Pennicooke was able to perform a laminoplasty to prevent future complications.

Spine conditions cover a broad spectrum of issues. Ranging from normal wear and tear on the spine known as degenerative disk or arthritic disease to herniated disks, spinal stenosis and scoliosis, these conditions can greatly affect your life by limiting mobility or causing debilitating neck and back pain. Fortunately, there are both surgical and nonsurgical options spine surgeons can use to effectively treat spine conditions.

May 2023 - Robotic surgery is an innovative approach used across specialties to perform complex procedures. When it comes to neurosurgery, robotic surgery has proven to be a helpful tool in addressing issues related to the spine. Learn more about how this technology is helping neurosurgeons better treat spine patients. 

January 2023 - Melisa Pulliam, 44, of Argenta, Illinois, began experiencing pain and numbness in her right arm. Caused by a spinal disk herniation, Melisa underwent a surgery at a non-BJC facility to help with her pain; however, the outcome was not as desired. “I was still having a tremendous amount of pain and couldn’t hold my head up,” shares Melisa. “It was miserable.”

August 2021 - Spine surgery is a complicated and misunderstood procedure. Though back pain is the number one reason Americans go to the emergency department, it is seldom the case that the condition would benefit from spine surgery. With the opening of our new spine center, we’re here to help you learn more about what spine surgeries treat and what you can expect when recovering.