Is a discectomy a major operation?

A herniated disc can press against the spinal cord or the nerves that fan out from the spinal cord. It can relieve nerve compression and pain caused by a herniated disc. Discectomy is a common but major surgery with significant risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options.

What is the average recovery time for a discectomy?

The recovery time varies from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the underlying disease treated and your general health. You may feel pain at the site of the incision. The original pain may not be completely relieved immediately after surgery.

How painful is a discectomy?

A lumbar discectomy is completely painless as it is done under anesthesia. The patient will feel nothing except the pinprick of the injection needle. Post-surgery, there is likely to be some amount of stiffness and pain that can be relieved with painkillers.

How successful is a discectomy?

The success rate for microdiscectomy spine surgery is generally high, with one extensive medical study showing good or excellent results overall for 84% of people who have the procedure.

Can you walk after a discectomy?

Walking is encouraged as a way to get moving as soon as possible after microdiscectomy surgery. This type of exercise is gentle on the back, helps improve overall fitness, and keeps the muscles flexible. Typically, patients are advised to begin with short walks and gradually work up to a few miles.

How long does it take for nerve to heal after discectomy?

Conclusion: In lumbar radiculopathy patients after surgical decompression, pain recovers fastest, in the first 6 weeks postoperatively, followed by paresthesia recovery that plateaus at 3 months postoperatively. Numbness recovers at a slower pace but continues until 1 year.

When can I bend after discectomy?

Restrictions on bending, lifting and twisting are common after lumbar discectomy, typically for six weeks.

What can you not do after a discectomy?

Do not do any running/jogging, vacuuming, weight lifting, sweeping/mopping, laundry, shoveling or raking, riding a lawn mower, wave runner or anything that might irritate your back until you have completely healed from your surgery. Do not drive for at least two weeks after surgery.

Why do I still have nerve pain after discectomy?

After a microdiscectomy for a disc herniation, another disc may rupture and impinge again on the nerve root. This can happen anywhere from days to years after the surgery. The hallmark of this is pain that is gone initially after surgery, but then spontaneously returns.

Can I climb stairs after a discectomy?

Weeks 1-2: Unlimited walking is permitted. You may walk up stairs. Sitting is alright, but avoid prolonged sitting, as this may cause discomfort. Do not lift any object greater than 5 pounds.

How soon can I walk after discectomy?

Liu says. He suggests patients start the recovery process by walking short distances during the first couple weeks after surgery and then gradually build endurance until they can walk two miles to three miles a day. “Endoscopic microdiscectomy is the modern approach to repair of herniated discs,” Dr. Liu states.

How long does it take to fully recover from a Microdiscectomy?

It may take up to 8 weeks to get back to doing your usual activities. Your doctor may advise you to work with a physiotherapist to strengthen the muscles around your spine and trunk. You will need to learn how to lift, twist, and bend so you don’t put too much strain on your back.

How is a diskectomy used to treat back pain?

Diskectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the damaged portion of a herniated disk in your spine. A herniated disk can irritate or compress nearby nerves. Diskectomy is most effective for treating pain that radiates down your arms or legs. The procedure is less helpful for treating actual back pain or neck pain.

Can a herniated disk be removed with a diskectomy?

A herniated disk occurs when some of the softer material inside the disk pushes out through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness or weakness. Diskectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the damaged portion of a herniated disk in your spine.

When is a diskectomy too much to manage?

Conservative treatment, such as physical therapy or steroid injections, fails to improve your symptoms after six to 12 weeks Pain radiating into your buttocks, legs, arms or chest becomes too much to manage Diskectomy is considered a safe procedure. But as with any surgery, diskectomy carries a risk of complications.

Where do you go after a diskectomy surgery?

After surgery, you’re moved to a recovery room where the health care team watches for complications from the surgery and anesthesia. You may be healthy enough to go home the same day you have surgery, although a short hospital stay may be necessary — particularly if you have any serious pre-existing medical conditions.