Ankylosing Spondylitis
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints. It leads to inflammation in the vertebrae, causing severe pain, stiffness, and potential fusion of the spine over time. The name "ankylosing" refers to stiffening or immobility, while "spondylitis" means inflammation of the spine. This condition may also affect other joints, such as hips, shoulders, and smaller joints of the body, as well as other organs like the eyes and the gastrointestinal tract.
The primary goal of treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis is to reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation while preventing deformity and maintaining posture. There is no single cure for AS, so treatment revolves around managing symptoms and improving the quality of life. Treatment options include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, and in severe cases, surgical interventions. Physical therapy focuses on exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent spine stiffening. Medications such as NSAIDs, biologic agents, and anti-TNF drugs help control inflammation and pain.
Surgery is considered only in extreme cases where there is severe joint damage or spinal deformity. For example, joint replacement surgeries may be required if the hip joints are significantly affected. In some cases, spinal osteotomy (surgical realignment of the spine) is performed to correct deformities and improve posture. Surgical procedures for AS are complex and typically reserved for advanced cases where other forms of treatment are no longer effective.
Procedure Duration
The duration of treatment for Ankylosing Spondylitis varies greatly depending on the severity of the condition and the specific interventions required. Generally, AS is managed through a long-term treatment plan, with a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and therapy. For those undergoing non-surgical treatments, the duration is ongoing, often spanning months or even years, as maintaining mobility and controlling inflammation is a continuous effort.
Physical therapy sessions are usually conducted multiple times a week initially, followed by home-based exercises. These sessions aim to improve spinal flexibility, posture, and overall mobility. The benefits of physical therapy become more evident over time and require regular commitment to achieve the desired outcomes.
In cases where surgery is required, the duration includes pre-operative assessments, the surgical procedure, and an extensive recovery period. A joint replacement surgery, for example, may take several hours to complete, followed by a hospital stay of a few days to weeks, depending on the patient's condition. Recovery and rehabilitation can take several months, involving physical therapy to restore function and movement. Spine surgeries for AS, such as spinal osteotomy, are complex and require longer recovery times, often with a post-operative rehabilitation phase extending up to a year.
Benefits
- Pain Relief and Improved Mobility: Proper management can greatly reduce pain and improve the range of motion in the spine and affected joints.
- Slowing Disease Progression: Medications and physical therapies can help slow down or halt the progression of AS, preventing further joint damage.
- Improved Posture and Spine Alignment: Surgical interventions can correct spinal deformities and improve posture, reducing the risk of permanent hunching.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Timely and appropriate treatment enables individuals to lead active and fulfilling lives despite the condition.
- Reduced Inflammation and Stiffness: The use of anti-inflammatory medications and biologic agents can minimize joint inflammation and stiffness, improving overall comfort.
Potential Destinations
- India: Known for affordable treatment options and a range of facilities offering comprehensive care for Ankylosing Spondylitis. Physical therapy, medication, and surgical treatments are provided by well-trained specialists, making it a suitable choice for medical tourists seeking cost-effective options.
- Turkey: With its modern medical infrastructure and experienced physicians, Turkey has become a popular destination for orthopedic and spine treatments. Clinics and hospitals offer multidisciplinary care, including physical therapy, medication, and advanced surgical interventions, at competitive prices.
- Germany: Germany is renowned for its medical excellence and advanced technologies in spine care. Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis have access to specialized orthopedic and rheumatology centers, providing a high level of expertise and access to cutting-edge treatments for the disease.
- Mexico: Proximity to North America and affordable treatment options make Mexico a convenient destination for AS treatment. Hospitals and clinics provide a variety of care, from non-surgical treatments to advanced orthopedic procedures, with the added benefit of reduced waiting times.
- Thailand: Thailand is a preferred destination for those seeking both medical care and wellness therapy for Ankylosing Spondylitis. The country offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs, including physical therapy, pain management, and alternative therapies, in a relaxing environment conducive to recovery.
Risks & Considerations
- Medication Side Effects: Long-term use of NSAIDs and biologics can lead to potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues, increased risk of infection, and potential liver or kidney damage.
- Surgical Risks: Surgical interventions for AS carry risks such as infections, blood clots, nerve damage, and potential complications from anesthesia.
- Chronic Pain: Despite treatments, some patients may continue to experience chronic pain, requiring long-term pain management strategies.
- Limited Mobility and Function: In advanced cases, despite treatment, some patients may have residual stiffness or limited mobility due to spinal fusion or joint damage.
- Emotional and Psychological Impact: Living with a chronic condition like AS can affect mental health, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and stress, necessitating holistic care and support.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a doctor and hospital for the treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis, consider seeking a multidisciplinary approach. Choose a facility that has a team of experienced rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists. These specialists should be well-versed in the treatment of spine disorders and musculoskeletal conditions. It's also beneficial to look for hospitals with a strong reputation for handling complex AS cases and offering a range of treatment options, including physical therapy, medication, and surgical interventions if necessary.
Accreditation and reviews play a significant role in the decision-making process. Verify that the hospital has received international accreditation for its medical services and safety standards. Research patient reviews, testimonials, and success stories to gauge the quality of care. A transparent, patient-centered approach and open communication with the healthcare provider will ensure that you receive comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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