Can You Have a Discectomy on the Same Disc Twice?

A discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the damaged portion of a herniated disc in the spine. It is often performed to relieve pain and other symptoms caused by the disc pressing on nearby nerves. But what happens if you experience similar symptoms again with the same disc after surgery? Can you have a discectomy on the same disc twice? In this article you will learn about the possibility, risks, benefits, and what you should consider before undergoing a second discectomy.

Understanding Discectomy and Recurrence

A discectomy involves the removal of the herniated or damaged part of a disc that is causing nerve compression and pain. It is a common and generally successful procedure for relieving symptoms associated with a herniated disc. However, even after a successful discectomy, there is a possibility of recurrent disc herniation.

What Recurrent Disc Herniation Is

Recurrent disc herniation occurs when the same disc that was previously operated on herniates again. This can happen months or even years after the initial surgery. The likelihood of recurrence varies but is generally estimated to be around 5–15 percent within the first two years after the initial surgery. Factors contributing to recurrence can include the degree of initial disc degeneration, the patient’s lifestyle, and the type of activity the patient engages in post-surgery.

Having a Repeat Discectomy on the Same Disc 

It is possible to have a discectomy on the same disc more than once. This procedure is often referred to as a revision discectomy. A surgeon can perform a second discectomy to address recurrent herniation or persistent symptoms that did not fully resolve after the first surgery.

Factors to Consider for a Second Discectomy

Before deciding on a second discectomy, several factors need to be considered:

• Severity of symptoms – Are your symptoms similar to those before the first surgery? Do they significantly impact your daily life and activities?
• Imaging results – MRI or CT scans should confirm recurrent herniation or other issues causing your symptoms.
• Nonsurgical interventions – Have nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, been tried without success?
• Overall health – Is your general health good enough to undergo another surgery? Factors such as age, medical history, and physical condition play a role.
• Surgical risks – Understanding the potential risks and complications of a second surgery is crucial.

Risks and Complications of a Second Discectomy

While a second discectomy can provide relief, it also carries certain risks and complications. The likelihood of these risks can be higher than with the initial surgery due to scar tissue formation and changes in spinal anatomy. Some of the potential risks include:

• Increased scar tissue – Scar tissue from the first surgery can make the second surgery more complex and increase the risk of nerve damage.
• Infection – As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
• Nerve injury – There is a higher risk of nerve injury during a second surgery.
• Spinal instability – Repeated surgeries on the same disc can sometimes lead to spinal instability, which might require further surgical intervention, such as spinal fusion surgery.

Benefits of a Second Discectomy

Despite the risks, a second discectomy can offer significant benefits, particularly if nonsurgical treatments have failed to provide relief. Some potential benefits include:

• Pain relief – Effective removal of recurrent disc material can alleviate nerve compression and reduce pain.
• Increased mobility – Reducing pain can enhance the ability to move and perform daily activities.
• Enhanced quality of life – Successful surgery can significantly improve overall quality of life by reducing chronic pain and discomfort.

What to Expect during Recovery

Recovery from a second discectomy can vary from person to person. Generally, the recovery process involves:

• Hospital stay – A short hospital stay (typically 1–2 days) may be required.
• Pain management – Pain and discomfort can be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Physical therapy – A structured physical therapy program can aid in recovery, strengthen the back muscles, and increase mobility.
• Activity restrictions – Limiting certain activities and following your surgeon’s advice about lifting, bending, and twisting are crucial during the initial recovery period.
• Follow-up appointments – Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are necessary to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Undergoing a second discectomy on the same disc is possible and can be effective in relieving symptoms of recurrent disc herniation. However, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and complications. Consulting with your healthcare provider, considering alternative treatments, and understanding what to expect during recovery can help you make an informed decision. Each case is unique, and what works for one patient may not be suitable for another. If you are experiencing recurrent symptoms after a discectomy, seeking a thorough evaluation and discussing all your options with a specialist are crucial for achieving the best outcome.

Although discectomy surgery is generally a very successful procedure, a hole is left in the outer wall of the disc. Patients with a large hole in the outer ring of the disc are more than twice as likely to reherniate after surgery. A new treatment, Barricaid, which is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce the likelihood of a reherniation, was specifically designed to close the large hole often left in the spinal disc after microdiscectomy. In a large-scale study, 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in the 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, ask your doctor or contact us today.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.