A herniated disc happens when the spinal center or nucleus protrudes through a tear in its rubbery exterior or annulus. Diskectomy is a promising treatment option for a herniated disc. However, not all herniated disc issues require surgical methods. Before asking for an operative measure, talk to your provider first. There may be a non-operative and minimally invasive procedure fit for your health needs.
Let’s talk about what diskectomy is, how it works, and where you can go in to get this surgery if you are located in Rochester Hills, MI.
What Is Diskectomy?
Diskectomy depletes the pressure a herniated disc puts on the spinal nerve. Some conservative treatment and therapy can help treat this condition, but your provider may recommend diskectomy when:
- Non-operative treatment fails to relieve pain after 6 to 12 weeks
- Pain reaches the extremities, chest, and buttocks
- You begin to feel numb and weak in your back
- Difficulty controlling the bladder and bowel
- Difficulty standing or walking
Types of Diskectomy
Standard Diskectomy
It involves making an incision to visualize the disc and then using surgical tools to remove the herniated part.
Microdiscectomy
It’s a low-risk procedure where the surgeon makes a smaller incision in your spine to remove the pain-inducing part.
Percutaneous Diskectomy
The surgeon makes an incision with the help of a fluoroscope, a device they use to navigate and operate. They may use a laser, chemical solution, heat, or radio waves to remove or shrink material or ease nerve pressure.
Herniated disc treatment may include laminectomy or trimming the vertebra’s lamina or outer arch. It can help put pressure away from the nerves.
Diskectomy in the neck or cervical spine may include foraminotomy or spinal fusion. Lumbar or lower back diskectomy may also involve the other surgical procedures mentioned earlier.
How It Goes
Performing diskectomy in a hospital setting is a pretty straightforward herniated disc treatment. It may take only an hour to finish if there are no complications.
First, your provider will use local or general anesthesia. They will monitor your vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure.
Then, your surgeon will make a small incision in your back where your affected spinal disc is. They may use imaging devices to confirm the position. Afterward, they will insert a wire and tube as an entry point for their tools, light, and camera.
Your provider will perform the necessary repairs, remove the instruments, and close the incision.
Unlike other more invasive procedures, diskectomy requires a shorter hospitalization time.
The choice of provider is essential in a successful herniated disc treatment. Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren and his team of practitioners in Ahlgren Spine have experience providing herniated disc relief.
Risks And Complications
Unlike major open surgeries, herniated disc treatment by diskectomy has a good safety profile. However, complications are not out of the picture since it is an operative method.
Risks of undergoing this treatment include excessive bleeding, substance-unrelated blood clots, and leaks in the spinal area. You may also sustain damage to nerves, blood vessels, or spinal layers.
Preparation
The best preparation for this back surgery is to ask for advice from your doctor. They may recommend refraining from taking medications ahead of your surgery. You may also need to fast and avoid drinking fluids the night before a herniated disc treatment.
You will most likely need imaging tests to confirm and specify your diagnosis. Additionally, you may want to prepare your room to serve as a nurturing space while recovering from the operation.
Recovery
Diskectomy is a low-risk surgical procedure. Many can return to normal function within 2 to 6 weeks unless your job requires heavy lifting or driving machinery.
Most people do not need hospitalization after resting their way after the operation. But before going home, make sure to ask for refined and accurate instructions from your provider. Doing so will save you time and help you avoid further complications.
Call your surgeon immediately if you feel or observe unpleasant signs and symptoms. They may indicate an infection in your wounds:
- Unexplained fever
- Swelling of the area
- Redness in the surgery site
- Persistent pain that is hard to manage, and
- Warmth to touch incision wound
Herniated Disc Treatment in Rochester Hills, MI
Are you looking for relief for your herniated discs? The dedicated and competent team of providers in Ahlgren Spine understands your orthopedic concern. We can provide what you need, from diagnosis to long-term recovery.
If you want to learn about our top-notch spine treatments and on-site services, you may call us at (248) 215-8080. You may also use our convenient online request form to book an appointment with the best spine surgeon near you. Check out our blogs to learn more about spine treatments and orthopedic science.
