NY When Is Surgery Necessary for a Herniated Disc?
Between each of the vertebrae in the spine are discs that act as shock absorbers to cushion the vertebrae and allow for movement without the friction of bones against each other. These discs have a tough outer layer (annulus) and a jelly-like material on the inside (nucleus). When the jelly-like material pushes out of the harder outer layer of the disc and into the small spinal canal, it is known as a disc herniation. The spinal canal is not large enough to accommodate both the nucleus and the nerve and can lead to nerve damage both mechanically and chemically. This displacement of disc material can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness in the back, legs, and arms.
For those suffering from a herniated disk, conservative treatment such as rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy are usually the first line of intervention. After exhausting nonoperative treatments to reduce your chronic pain and you are not seeing any improvement after a few months, it may be time for surgical intervention. Surgery is usually suggested for those in chronic pain with extreme signs of nerve compression or disability. If your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, you should discuss surgical treatment options with a spine specialist.
If, after exhausting conservative options and nonoperative treatments, there is no relief from pain, surgery may be necessary. Fortunately, surgical technologies have made remarkable advancements, and these surgeries are now much less invasive than before, with shorter recovery periods and better outcomes for patients.
A minimally invasive discectomy is a technique that requires only a small incision and uses advanced fluoroscopy to produce real-time x-ray images to access the affected disc with greater accuracy. The herniated portions of the disc are removed, relieving pressure on the spinal nerve. This approach is beneficial as patients are able to walk out of the hospital shortly after the procedure and go home the same day, with a shorter recovery profile than an open discectomy. The best procedure for each individual will depend on factors such as age, lifestyle, and injury severity and should be discussed with the spine specialist.
There are various surgical options available for people with a herniated disc. Individuals who undergo surgery may experience a significant decrease in pain and improved physical function in the long term, but there is a chance that symptoms may not improve or may return in the future. Although surgery may provide faster relief than other treatments, it may not be the best choice for everyone. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a doctor before deciding on a treatment. If you are in pain, remember that the sooner you seek help, the easier it will be to find a successful treatment plan. The longer you wait, the more challenging it may be to recover. If you are in pain and not living life to its fullest, it is best to consult your doctor about the best treatment option for you.
