The spine is the vertebral column, or the series of bones in the back that allows for stiffness and movement in the body. These bones provide connection points for other muscles and bones. Most importantly, the spine encloses the spinal cord, which contains the nerves that carry messages between the brain and body.
The spinal column is divided into several segments:
- cervical spine (the neck)
- thoracic spine (the part of the back behind the chest)
- lumbar spine (lower back)
- sacral spine (the part connected to the pelvis that does not move)
Virtua's Spine Program offers a wide range or surgical and non-surgical treatment options for neck and back conditions. This includes everything from minimally invasive surgery to physical rehabilitation.
Virtua's Spine Program was the first program to be accredited in the Northeast, and only the second to achieve this prestigious recognition 
nationwide. This award-winning Spine Program is led by a dedicated spine panel comprised of Virtua surgeons who set standards, monitor quality and provide excellent outcomes for patients. Virtua has the only spine program in the region that has earned the prestigious Joint Commission.
Virtua Memorial Hospital has been designated an Aetna Institute of Quality (IOQ) for its spine surgery program. Designated IOQ facilities demonstrate excellence in care, a commitment to continuous improvement and represent an exceptional value to its members. The goal of Aetna’s IOQ is to assist members in choosing facilities that provide consistently high-quality and high-value care.
Virtua offers advanced care for acute and chronic back, neck and spine diseases, disorders and injuries including:
- Arthritis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Neck and spine diseases
- Neurological compressive symptoms (pinched nerve)
- Osteoporosis
- Scoliosis
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Metastatic disease of the spine
- Automobile and work-related injuries
- Traumatic injury
Virtua surgeons perform more than 1,000 spine procedures each year. Virtua also emphasizes education for patients and families about rehabilitation and recovery.