A herniated disc can be a painful and debilitating condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. While many cases of herniated discs can be managed with conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medication, some individuals may require surgery to find relief. In this article, we’ll explore when herniated disc surgery is necessary and what you need to know about this procedure.
When Is Herniated Disc Surgery Necessary?
Herniated disc surgery is typically considered herniated disc surgery price when conservative treatments fail to alleviate the symptoms or when the condition causes severe neurological deficits. Here are some common scenarios when surgery may be recommended:
- Persistent and Severe Pain: If you experience persistent and severe pain that doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatments like rest, physical therapy, or pain medications, surgery might be the next step.
- Nerve Compression: When the herniated disc compresses nearby nerves, leading to muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or loss of bowel or bladder control, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves.
- Functional Impairment: If the herniated disc significantly impairs your ability to perform daily activities, work, or maintain your quality of life, surgery may be recommended to address the underlying issue.
- Recurrent Herniations: Some individuals may experience recurrent herniated discs in the same area. In such cases, surgical intervention may be considered to prevent further damage.
Types of Herniated Disc Surgery
There are several surgical approaches to treating herniated discs, but the most common procedures include:
- Discectomy: This procedure involves removing the herniated portion of the disc, relieving pressure on the affected nerves. It can be performed through minimally invasive techniques or traditional open surgery.
- Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive variant of discectomy, microdiscectomy uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to access and remove the herniated disc fragment, reducing damage to surrounding tissues.
- Laminectomy: In some cases, a laminectomy may be performed to remove a portion of the vertebral bone (lamina) to create more space for the affected nerve roots.
- Fusion: Fusion surgery is considered in cases where the disc damage is extensive or when multiple discs are involved. It involves removing the damaged disc and fusing the adjacent vertebrae together to stabilize the spine.
Herniated disc surgery should not be the first option in most cases. It’s typically reserved for individuals who have not responded to conservative treatments or are experiencing severe neurological symptoms. If you believe you may require herniated disc surgery, consult with a spine specialist who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
