About Lumbar Discectomy
Lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure that involves repairing any spine abnormalities. The main indication for discectomy is a herniated disc. A herniated disc occurs when a pinched nerve or nerve root compression occurs. In this situation, the doctor would remove part of a disc causing the symptoms.
Benefits of surgery
The doctor would advise surgery if the pain radiates to extremities. The surgery is also required if there is any difficulty standing or ambulating or any weakness or tingling symptoms. Back or neck pain may indicate the procedure, but not always. If symptoms persist after 6 weeks despite conservative treatment, the doctor may recommend surgery.
What happens after surgery?
After the surgery, the patient is placed under observation for some hours. Since the surgery is considered an outpatient procedure, one may get discharged on the same day after post-surgical observation. The doctor will likely prescribe pain medication to alleviate pain or discomfort during rehabilitation. However, the duration of stay in the hospital does vary from case to case based on the patient’s pre-existing medical conditions. For example, one study demonstrates more extended hospital stays for diabetes and narcotic-dependent patients.
Time to get stronger
The doctor would advise the required precautions depending on the patient’s condition. Standard precautions include avoiding straining activities such as lifting, sitting, twisting, bending, and driving for a few weeks. Other helpful recommendations include physical therapy or wearing a back brace—light activities such as walking for an hour or so are recommended. The doctor would likely advise heading back to work 2-6 weeks after surgery, some 6-8 weeks depending on the case and the patients’ recovery.
Risks and complications
Like any other surgery, discectomy is associated with various risks and complications. Some patients may fully recover after a few weeks, while others battle difficulties depending on the case. Some risks include bleeding or discharge, infection, blood clots, nerve injury, and any reaction to anesthetic drugs. Serious complications include loss of consciousness, calf pain, bladder issues, tingling sensation, and ongoing pain. If any difficulties occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Response after the procedure
The surgery usually benefits most patients and reduces the symptoms. A study showed that surgery has a higher chance of having minimal symptoms years later than conservative treatment. According to past cases, surgical treatment works well if performed within 6 months of symptoms. Consult your doctor to see if you would benefit from treatment.
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“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
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“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
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“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
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“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
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“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
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“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
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“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
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