Stages of Disease
The progression to an actual Herniated disc varies from slow to sudden onset of symptoms. There are four stages:
(1) disc protrusion
(2) prolapsed disc
(3) disc extrusion
(4) sequestered disc.
Stages 1 and 2 are referred to as incomplete, where 3 and 4 are complete herniations.
Tag Line
is surgery to remove lumbar (low back) herniated disc material that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary greatly depending on the position of the herniated disc and the size of the herniation.
- Lower backache
- Burning, tingling and numbness that radiates from the buttocks into the leg and sometimes into the foot.
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Numbness and tingling around the anus or genitals
- Pain with movement, straining, coughing, or doing leg raises
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements or bladder function
Pre-Procedure
- A full physical examination will be conducted by the doctor to see if the patient is in good health to undertake the surgery.
- The patient’s medical history is thoroughly studied so as to avoid any complications from arising during or after the surgery.
- Medications such as blood thinners, are advised to be stopped, a week before the surgery is due to take place.
- The patient is required to fast for a minimum of 8 hours before the surgery.
Procedure
- It is performed through an incision down the center of the back over the area of the herniated disc. During this procedure, a portion of the lamina may be removed.
- A small opening is made between the two vertebrae to gain access to the herniated disc.
- After the disc is removed through a discectomy, the spine may need to be stabilized. Spinal fusion is often performed in conjunction with a laminotomy.
Post Surgical Care
Maintain correct posture when sitting and standing.
Preventing wounds from infection.
Physiotherapy and active guided movement of that area.
Balanced nutritious dense diet.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Risks
There is a slight risk of damaging nerves or the spine during surgery.
Infection, and the chance that the surgery may not relieve your symptoms.
There is a chance that you may get new symptoms in the future.
