Discectomy

Ever wondered what exactly a discectomy is and how it can affect your health and daily functioning? In this article, you'll learn what this surgical procedure involves, its indications and the surgical methods available. We will also discuss the costs associated with the procedure and preparation for surgery, as well as the key role of rehabilitation in the process of returning to full function. Read the text to understand how Discectomy can provide pain relief and improve quality of life.

From this article you will learn:

• What is a discectomy?
  • Treatment methods
  • Indications for discectomy
• Discectomy - price and preparation for the procedure
  • Preparation for surgery
• Discectomy - rehabilitation and complications
  • Rehabilitation after discectomy
  • Possible complications
• Summary

What is a discectomy?

Discectomy is a procedure mainly used for herniated intervertebral discs when other treatments fail. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the patient is placed on the abdomen, allowing the surgeon direct access to the spinal canal. The duration of a discectomy is usually about 45 minutes, and the procedure results in decompression of the compressed nerve structures and significant pain relief. The goal of the procedure is to decompress the nerve structures, leading to relief of symptoms such as pain, numbness or muscle weakness. The procedure also involves the removal of other anatomical structures, such as protuberant nucleus pulposus, osteoliths and spinal ligaments, which can contribute to nerve compression.

Treatment methods

The choice of discectomy technique depends on a number of factors, such as the location of the hernia, the patient's health status and the surgeon's experience. The available methods differ in the degree of invasiveness, recovery time and precision of execution. Choosing the right technique should be preceded by a thorough diagnosis and individual assessment of the patient's condition. With the right discectomy method, the hernia can be successfully removed and life is greatly improved.

• open method - involves making a wide incision, which provides full access to the spinal canal. The disadvantages of this method are greater invasiveness and longer recovery time;
• percutaneous discectomy - is a less invasive procedure during which the surgeon uses special instruments inserted through small incisions, which minimizes tissue damage;
• microdiscectomy - often used in the lumbar region, involves the removal of a section of the disc using an operating microscope, which allows precise removal of only the damaged part of the disc;
• endoscopic discectomy - is a state-of-the-art intervertebral disc removal that uses an endoscope for minimally invasive disc removal, which reduces surgery time and speeds up recovery to full function.

Indications for discectomy

Discectomy is recommended when there are severe symptoms that do not resolve with conservative therapy (severe back pain, pain radiating to the extremities, numbness and muscle weakness). The main reasons for which discectomy is performed are. intervertebral disc herniation, which leads to pressure on the nerve root or spinal cord, and spinal canal stenosis. Surgical intervention is also necessary when neurological symptoms, such as sensory or movement disorders, worsen despite conservative treatment. In such cases, discectomy is beneficial in terms of pain relief, improved neurological function and faster return to normal activity.

Discectomy - price and preparation for the procedure

A discectomy is a surgical method of treating a herniated intervertebral disc, which often involves significant expenses. If you're wondering how much a discectomy costs, the price is a question that involves a variety of elements, including Fees for the surgery itself, implants, diagnostics and rehabilitation. Depending on the complexity of the operation and the specific clinic, the cost can vary significantly. Preparation for surgery is crucial to its success and includes a number of tests and consultations.

Preparation for surgery

Preparation for discectomy requires precise laboratory tests and consultations with various specialists. Patients must have blood tests, ECGs and inform the doctor about all medications they are taking, especially anticoagulants. A light diet before surgery is also recommended. It is also important to have a consultation with an anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia. Attention to detail in preparation can make a significant difference in the success of the operation and speed up recovery.

Discectomy - rehabilitation and complications

Rehabilitation after discectomy is a key part of the recovery process that helps patients return to full physical function and minimize the risk of recurrence of spinal problems. After surgery, patients are usually referred to a rehabilitation program that Includes exercises to strengthen back muscles and techniques to improve spinal flexibility. Encouraging early mobilization in the hospital is important because it helps prevent complications such as blood clots and infections. Modern rehabilitation not only speeds up the healing process and reduces postoperative pain, but also prevents deterioration of circulation and delays wound healing.

Rehabilitation after discectomy

Rehabilitation after discectomy begins as early as in the hospital, where the patient is encouraged to mobilize early. It is worth remembering that patients should avoid lifting weights and sitting for long periods of time so as not to strain the operated segment of the spine. Early exercise focus on breathing, stretching and muscle strengthening, which is crucial for a speedy recovery. Properly conducted physical rehabilitation after discectomy is crucial not only for recovery, but also for the continued health of the spine, preventing future problems and orthopedic conditions:

• strengthening exercises - are designed to strengthen the muscles that stabilize the spine, which is essential for maintaining proper posture;
• flexibility exercises - help improve spinal mobility, which contributes to reducing the risk of recurrence of problems.

Possible complications

Although discectomy is an effective procedure, it carries some risk of complications that may occur in 1% to 10% cases. Reducing the risk of complications requires strict adherence to medical recommendations and properly conducted rehabilitation. A positive attitude and active cooperation between the patient and the medical team also play an important role in the recovery process. The most common complications include:

• nerve root damage - can lead to permanent neurological problems such as pain, muscle weakness and loss of sensation;
• damage to the meningeal sac - exposes the patient to the risk of cerebrospinal fluid leakage;
• infections - may occur at the surgical site, requiring antibiotic treatment;
• formation of connective tissue scar - can lead to postoperative pain syndrome. This risk is lessened with modern techniques such as microdiscectomy with the use of anti-gel.

Summary

A discectomy is an operation to remove a fragment of an intervertebral disc that is pressing on spinal nerves, providing pain relief and improved neurological function. This procedure is especially recommended when other treatments fail. Methods of performing discectomy vary in invasiveness and recovery time. Preparation for surgery includes diagnostic tests and consultations, and rehabilitation after surgery is crucial for full recovery and minimizing the risk of complications. Benefit from the experience of Neuroport's team of specialists, where you will receive comprehensive care - from qualifying for surgery to individually tailored rehabilitation, conducted in accordance with the latest standards.