Disk Surgery: Your Easy Guide to Disk Surgery Treatments

Disk surgery, in other words, known as discectomy, is a common procedure to remove abnormal disc material that puts pressure on nerves, causing pain, weakness or numbness. It’s the most effective treatment for a herniated disc. It causes pain, numbness or weakness. The specific surgery for a herniated disc is determined by various factors, such as the disc’s location, the level of pain, and the resulting disability.  

Discectomy: Risks & Outcomes

Discectomies typically have a low risk of complications. However, in rare instances, individuals may experience the following:  

• Infections
• Bleeding
• Tears appear in the protective lining of the spine.
• Having injuries to the nerve.

  In some cases, the affected disc may rupture again, which results in the recurrence of symptoms.   Herniated disc surgery has shown to be a beneficial treatment for those experiencing chronic pain. However, it’s important to note that surgeons cannot guarantee that all symptoms will completely resolve after surgery. It is possible for individuals to still experience pain from a herniated disc even after the recovery period. In certain situations, the pain may even worsen over time.  

Fixing Herniated Discs: The Procedures

Herniated disc surgery aims to relieve pressure on the nerve, ultimately reducing pain and addressing other related symptoms. A doctor may employ one of three techniques to relieve pressure on the nerve.

• Open discectomy: The surgeon carefully conducts open surgery to remove the herniated portion of the disc.
• Endoscopic spine surgery: The surgeon employs an endoscope to extract the herniated disc portion, making the procedure minimally invasive with a small incision. Consequently, only a minor scar forms, leading to a speedier recovery for the patient.
• Surgery on the core of the spinal disc: The surgeon utilizes specialized instruments to access the central area of the spinal disc and employs a vacuum to extract the core. This decreases the size of the disc and reduces pressure on the nerve. The outer layer of the disc must remain undamaged for this procedure.

Other surgical interventions for a herniated disc include:  

• Laminotomy or Laminectomy

 The lamina is a crucial component of the vertebrae, protecting the spinal canal. In certain cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair a herniated disc, which may involve the partial or complete removal of the lamina. A laminotomy is when a part of the lamina is removed, while a laminectomy is when the entire lamina is removed. Both procedures require a small incision along the back or neck over the herniated disc area. The surgeon then removes part or all of the lamina and performs a discectomy to remove the herniated disc. Laminotomies and laminectomies can be performed on the lumbar or cervical areas of the spine.

• Lumbar procedures: These can provide relief for leg or sciatic pain caused by a herniated disc in the lower back.
• Cervical procedures: These can provide relief for the pain in the neck and upper limbs caused by a herniated disc in the neck region.

 

Spinal Fusion

After a laminotomy or laminectomy, a spinal fusion (SF) may be required to stabilize the spine by joining two bones together with screws. Some people may experience pain and feel restricted in their movements after undergoing an SF. The need for fusion depends on the herniated disc’s location, stability of the spine & duration of disease .Cervical discectomy is done by an anterior approach through neck.  

Artificial Disc Surgery

Artificial disc surgery (ADS) is a viable alternative to spinal fusion. During ADS, the surgeon replaces the damaged disc with an artificial one. A surgeon typically links this approach with reduced pain and improved movement compared to SF procedures. This method is often associated with less discomfort and greater freedom of movement for the patient.

Disk Surgery Recovery Timeline

Undergoing herniated disc surgery sooner rather than later can lead to a quicker recovery and improved long-term health. Most patients can expect to go home within 24 hours of the operation, with some being able to leave on the same day. Doctors recommend refraining from certain activities for about four weeks following herniated disc surgery. It includes  

• Bending Over
• Sitting For Long Periods
• Driving
• Lifting Heavy Weights

  Certain exercises may benefit individuals who have undergone herniated disc surgery. Prior to engaging in any strenuous activities, it is advisable to seek guidance from a doctor or surgeon. In conclusion, Disk surgery, or discectomy, is an effective treatment for relieving herniated disc symptoms. It may not resolve all symptoms, but it can greatly improve the quality of life for many. It is recommended to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable course of action for your specific situation. With proper care, many people can return to normal activities relatively quickly.