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A Discectomy is a type of Spinal Decompression procedure that involves the removal of a part or all of the affected disc. The procedure is usually recommended for patients who are unable to respond to conventional treatments for herniated discs and other conditions that occur in the spinal cord. Herniated discs can happen in the lumbar region (lower back), the cervical region (neck), and, in rare cases, the thoracic region (middle back).
Pre-procedure: The type of anaesthesia is discussed before the procedure, and you will be placed in a genupectoral position.
Procedure: Anaesthesia is administered, and your vital signs are checked. Depending on the technique, the surgeon will make a larger incision (open-surgery), followed by muscle retraction to access and remove the herniated disc, or a small incision (minimally invasive technique), where specialised tools called dilators are used to tunnel through the muscles. Using an endoscope, the surgeons can visualise the area, locate the affected part where the herniation is present, and remove the disc tissue and pieces of the disc. The muscles are then returned to their normal positions, and the incision is closed with staples or stitches.
Post-procedure: After the procedure, we will move you to the recovery room for further monitoring.
The Discectomy procedure is beneficial for patients with:
Cauda Equina syndrome is identified as a serious condition where the nerve roots present in the lumbar region are compressed, causing pain, problems in bladder and bowel movement, and numbness
Severe pain, especially in the back or leg region, that does not respond to conventional treatments after 6–8 weeks
Worsening or a new set of neurological symptoms
The procedure, however, is not recommended for patients with spinal canal stenosis or narrowing, spinal instability, malignant tumours involving the dura matter, conditions that mimic herniated discs, certain local or systemic infections, or vertebral fractures that may necessitate Stabilisation or Instrumentation Surgery. The contraindications may vary nonetheless, and our specialists will calculate the risks and benefits to help you make an informed decision regarding the need to undergo the procedure.
Our specialists will evaluate your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam to assess your general health. Based on the initial assessments, specialists may recommend you undergo an X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or discography to locate the presence and check the level or pattern of the herniated disc. Depending on the results, you will be informed of the type of anaesthesia administered, the events of the procedure, its risks and benefits, and your expectations after the surgery.
General instructions you can follow to prepare for a Discectomy procedure include:
Prepare yourself for your homecoming after the procedure, including transportation to and from the hospital and packing your clothes and comfort items for your stay there.
Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco to prevent any complications.
Informing our specialists of existing co-morbidities or conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, and letting them know of your current medications and your pregnancy status.
Abstaining from medications such as blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Our specialist will instruct you on the medicines you should take for the procedure.
During your stay in the recovery room, our specialists will encourage you to get up and walk after your anaesthesia wears off. Minimally Invasive Discectomy procedures do not generally require hospital stays, and you will be discharged on the day of the procedure. However, this can differ depending on the patient's condition and other factors. Any pain or discomfort during your stay will be addressed with pain relievers and antibiotics. Moreover, our specialists will recommend you to a physical therapist to assist you in enhancing your recovery by tailoring customised exercise plans. You will also be given instructions on caring for your incision site, activity restrictions, and possible complications to look out for during your recovery.
The Discectomy procedure usually takes one to two hours. However, this can vary based on the severity of the condition and the need for additional procedures, such as Stabilisation or Instrumentation Surgery, which involves placing bone grafts in place of the bone removed and fusing them with screws, plates, or rods. Our specialists will let you know the expected duration of your procedure based on your case.
Possible complications or risks that can be associated with the Discectomy procedure include:
Dural tear, leading to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage
Iatrogenic neuropraxia, involving nerve root injury, occurred during the procedure
Infection around the surgical site, causing wound dehiscence
Spinal cord or epidural bleeding
Vascular injury
Epidural haematoma
Difficulty in identifying herniated discs
Failed-back surgery syndrome, which comprises severe pain after the procedure
Abnormal connection between the iliac artery and vein, causing an iliac arteriovenous fistula
Post-operative discal pseudocyst
Recurrence of the herniated discs, particularly in the lumbar region
Re-operation
Your recovery depends on the severity of your herniated disc, your general health, and how well you adhere to post-recovery instructions. During your recovery period, you will be given the following instructions:
Do not perform any strenuous exercises or activities, and wait for at least two to six weeks before returning to light and routine activities. However, it might take around 12 weeks to return to a manual job.
Adhere to exercises instructed by our physical therapist to enhance your recovery.
Stick to the medication regimens, such as pain management and antibiotics, and attend follow-up appointments.
Practice good posture and use back braces or other accessories that support your back.
A complete recovery from a Discectomy usually takes around six to eight weeks. Our specialists will assist and guide you with the best care throughout the process.
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