What Is the Chance of Paralysis After Discectomy Surgery?

Written by The Barricaid Team | Jun 16, 2023 10:32:00 PM

Discectomy surgery is a common procedure performed to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by herniated discs. However, concerns about the risk of paralysis after surgery often arise, creating anxiety and confusion among patients. This article sheds light on the actual probability of paralysis following a discectomy, separating fact from fiction and providing accurate information that can help patients make informed decisions about their health and alleviate any unnecessary fears associated with the surgery.

Understanding Discectomy Surgery

Before addressing the chances of paralysis, it is essential to understand what discectomy surgery entails. A discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove part or all of a herniated or damaged disc in the spine. This form of herniated disc surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or medication, fail to provide sufficient relief. By removing some or all of the herniated disc, the surgeon aims to relieve pressure on the nerves and reduce pain and other symptoms associated with the condition.

Risk Factors and Surgical Technique

Several factors can influence the risk of paralysis following discectomy surgery. These factors include the location and severity of the herniated disc, the presence of other underlying spinal conditions, and the expertise of the surgeon. It is crucial to choose a skilled, experienced surgeon who follows proper surgical techniques to minimize the risk of complications. Surgeons who specialize in spine surgery, especially discectomy and less invasive microdiscectomy procedures, are well versed in minimizing risks and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Actual Probability of Paralysis

The risk of paralysis after discectomy surgery is very low. According to MedicineNet, it is one of the rarest of all potential complications (1 in 10,000) of herniated disc surgery. While the risk cannot be completely eliminated, it is important to understand that the occurrence of paralysis is an extremely rare complication. The benefits of the surgery, such as pain relief and improved quality of life, often outweigh the minimal risks involved. It is crucial to maintain realistic expectations and focus on the potential benefits of the procedure.

Importance of Preoperative Evaluation

To further mitigate the risks associated with discectomy surgery, thorough preoperative evaluations are crucial. These evaluations involve a comprehensive assessment of the patient's medical history, physical condition, and any preexisting neurological deficits. By identifying any potential risk factors beforehand, the doctor can tailor the surgical approach and take necessary precautions to minimize complications. Communicating openly and honestly with your surgeon during the preoperative evaluation is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.

Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation

Postoperative care plays a vital role in the discectomy recovery process and reducing the chances of complications. Following surgery, patients are typically advised to adhere to specific activity restrictions and engage in rehabilitation programs, including physical therapy. These measures aid in proper healing, prevent recurrent disc herniation, and promote a successful recovery. Following your surgeon's instructions diligently and actively participating in rehabilitation can significantly contribute to a positive outcome.

While the fear of paralysis after discectomy surgery is understandable, it is crucial to base decisions on accurate information and realistic expectations. No surgical procedure is entirely risk-free, but discectomy surgery is considered safe and has a high success rate in alleviating symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. The probability of paralysis is extremely low, and the benefits of discectomy surgery often outweigh the minimal risks involved. It is important to approach the decision-making process with a balanced perspective, considering both the potential benefits and risks.

Although discectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, patients with a larger hole in the outer ring of the disc have a significantly higher risk of herniation following surgery. This risk is doubled if there is a large hole in the outer ring of the disc. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is performed 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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