Spinal disc herniation is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. A herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc, is a condition where one of the discs that cushion the vertebrae in the spine bulges out and presses on a nerve root or the spinal cord. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of function in the affected area.
There are many factors that can contribute to spinal disc herniation, such as aging, injury, genetics, obesity, smoking, poor posture, or repetitive stress. Some people may not have any symptoms at all, while others may experience debilitating pain that interferes with their daily activities.
The symptoms and severity of a herniated disc depend on the location and size of the herniated disc as well as the degree of nerve compression. While many individuals can manage their symptoms with nonsurgical treatments, others may require surgery to alleviate their pain and regain their mobility. This article explores the effectiveness and risks of herniated disc surgery.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Herniated Discs
Before considering surgery, patients with herniated discs are often advised to try nonsurgical treatments first. These may include:- Resting and avoiding activities that worsen the pain
- Taking over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Applying heat or ice to the affected area
- Doing physical therapy exercises to strengthen core muscles and improve posture
- Wearing a brace or a corset to support the spine
- Getting spinal injections to reduce inflammation and pain
- Making lifestyle modifications such as exercising and losing weight
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When Herniated Disc Surgery May Be Recommended
In some cases, nonsurgical treatments may not provide adequate relief for herniated disc symptoms. Surgery may be recommended when the patient experiences severe and persistent pain, numbness, weakness, or bladder or bowel dysfunction. The decision to undergo surgery is ultimately made on an individual basis, taking into consideration the severity of the symptoms, the location of the herniated disc, the patient's age and overall health, and the potential risks and benefits of surgery.
Types of Herniated Disc Surgery
- Microdiscectomy – This is a minimally invasive procedure where a small incision is made in the back and a microscope is used to remove the herniated disc material.
- Laminectomy – This is a procedure where a part of the bone (lamina) that covers the spinal canal is removed to create more space for the nerve.
- Discectomy and fusion – This is a procedure where the entire disc is removed and replaced with a bone graft or an artificial device to fuse the adjacent vertebrae together.
- Artificial disc replacement – This is a procedure where the damaged disc is replaced with an artificial device that mimics the function of a natural disc.
The type of surgery that is best for you depends on several factors, such as your age, health condition, lifestyle, and expectations. Your doctor will discuss with you the benefits and risks of each option and help you make an informed decision.
Risks and Complications of Herniated Disc Surgery
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Spinal instability
- Recurrence of herniation
- Failed fusion
- Implant failure
- The severity and duration of your symptoms before surgery
- The type and extent of surgery performed
- Your age and general health condition
- Your compliance with postoperative care and rehabilitation
Recovery After Herniated Disc Surgery
The type of surgery that is best for you depends on several factors, such as your age, health condition, lifestyle, and expectations. Your doctor will discuss with you the benefits and risks of each option and help you make an informed decision.
Types of Herniated Disc Surgery
While herniated disc surgery may be a serious option for some patients, it is not always necessary or effective for everyone. Nonsurgical treatments may be adequate for managing mild to moderate symptoms, while surgery may be required for severe cases. The decision to undergo herniated disc surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, weighing the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
If you have a herniated disc that is not responding to conservative treatment, a discectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Although this is generally a very successful procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 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, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-288-7474.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.
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