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US- SPECIAL

American Standard - German Efficiency

UNDERSTANDING THE DISEASE

American Board certified spine specialist Dr. Thomas Hoogland has been working to develop and improve surgical solutions for the spine since 1989. It has become clear early on, that - in order to succeed in the treatment of disc disease - a better understanding of the functions and coherences of the spine had to be gained.

THE VERTEBRAL DISC

The vertebral disc consists of 3 components: the nucleus, the thick surrounding annulus and the endplates - thin cartilage membranes located between the vertebrae and the disc. We know today, that these membranes play a key role in the metabolism of the vertebral disc. An impaired metabolism leads to a calcification of this membrane, usually provoked by lack of activity. This causes a weakening of the annulus, making it vulnerable for ruptures and subsequent prolaps or herniation.

THE GOOD NEWS

According to the newest scientific insights regarding the disc-metabolism, Dr. Hoogland has added an additional step to his established Endoscopic Nucleotomy (endoscopic removal of herniated or sequestrated disc material). During the Discoplasty the adjacent endplates are abraded and refreshed with special instruments, consequently promoting a better metabolism of the affected disc.

Today´s minimal invasive, endoscopic concepts allow successful treatment of most common degenerative disc diseases. Dr. Hoogland and his team look back on more than 10.000 lumbar and 1.500 cervical minimal invasive spinal procedures.

MEDICAL TREATMENT ABROAD?

Seeking medical advise or treatment abroad has become widely available, especially thanks to the information exchange on the world wide web. Patients seek and find information concerning medical solutions abroad online. An additional quality check has emerged in various online forums, where patients help patients find the right solution for their problem.

While Germany is well known for its high quality service & efficiency, patients also benefit from Europe´s affordability. Direct flights to Munich international airport are avalable from most airports in the US. Patients operated in the Alpha Klinik are mobilized fast, most can leave Munich and return home just 2-3 days after their spine surgery. The Alpha Klinik offers assistance for international patients, who wish to receive information or treatment. For assistance contact usa@alphaklinik.de


IN TERMS OF THE PATIENT

Innovation – in the operative realm, as well as regarding the service for the patient - is highly emphasized at the Alpha Klinik. The entire team contributes- in their field of activity- in providing patients with important information, via phone, fax, online and in person. In-depth information is important to all patients, especially those who have travelled far to visit our facility. We invite patients (on this site) to meet the team and the facilities and to get all necessary information about examinations and procedures.

Dr. Hoogland is part of a large, world-wide network of spine-surgeons and an active member of many renowned medical societies - like the North American Spine Society (NASS), International Intradiscal Spine Society (IISS), the German Society for Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The International Society for Minimal Intervention in Spine Surgery –to name a few. The lively exchange between Dr. Hoogland and his colleagues and his frequent attendance at medical conventions yield a productive interchange of innovative ideas - FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE PATIENT.

ENJOY YOURSELF

Numerous patients report of unpleasant experiences at hospitals and clinics. Continuous stress and impersonal treatment of patients are common and cannot be avoided in most facilities due to their large size and structure. At the Alpha Klinik we emphasize individual care and a pleasant atmosphere: we know that good spirits cater for a speedy recovery.

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