Lumbar herniated disc surgery is a type of herniated disc surgery. This surgical technique can be used when conservative treatment of a herniated disc is not effective. This method, which is widely used in spine surgery, is especially suitable for adults. The purpose of lumbar herniated disc surgery is to relieve the pressure on the nerve roots caused by herniated discs. At the same time, reducing the excessive mobility between the vertebrae is one of the elements aimed at in the treatment process.

Why Is Lumbar Herniated Disc Surgery Performed?

As with any surgery, there are some situations where lumbar herniated disc surgery is necessary. Because a lumbar herniated disc affects so many parts of the body, the symptoms can be excruciating. An example of this is a pain in the arms, legs, and lower back. If the lumbar herniated disc, which is initially intended to heal with the

conservative treatment methods are at an advanced level, the desired improvement will not be achieved. As a result, lumbar herniated disc surgery is unavoidable. However, this surgery can be performed depending on the doctor’s decision. The following are some of the reasons why lumbar herniated disc surgery is used:

• Difficulty standing
• Having problems walking
• Urinary incontinence
• Difficulty maintaining daily functions
• Body pains in certain areas
• Leg numbness or weakness

In general, these are the reasons that make lumbar herniated disc surgery necessary. When conservative treatment methods such as medication or physical therapy are not effective, lumbar herniated disc surgery is performed. This surgery is generally considered appropriate for adults. Depending on the person’s age, herniated disc, and pain level, lumbar hernia surgery may be recommended. Since this surgery is performed using different procedures, it is important to consider these factors.

Lumbar Herniated Disc Surgery Types

There are some surgical options for lumbar disc herniation. A specific method is selected and applied according to the degree of lumbar disc herniation discomfort experienced by the person. For this, six different procedures can be applied. The possible procedures for lumbar disc herniation include open discectomy, endoscopic spine surgery, surgery on the core of the spinal disc, laminectomy, and spinal fusion. Below is important information regarding these:

• Open discectomy: In open surgery, the skin incision is opened widely. This is to create an area where the retractor can be used with the naked eye. The herniated part of the disc is removed through this large area. Since a large incision is made in open discectomy, which is one of the surgical procedures for lumbar disc herniation, the wound size will also be large. This can result in pain and nerve injury complications after surgery.
• Endoscopic spine surgery: In this procedure, an endoscope, or long thin tube, is the main instrument used to remove the herniated part of the disc. As it is a minimally invasive procedure, it requires a small incision. Because it is a small incision, there will be a quick recovery.
• Surgery on the core of the spinal disc: In this procedure, surgery is performed on the core of the spinal disc. Special materials and a vacuum are used for this. The main aim of the procedure is to shrink the spinal disc and reduce pressure on the nerve.
• Laminectomy: The lamina, which protects the spinal canal, must be removed if the herniated disc is to be repaired. This procedure allows the lamina to be completely removed. In this procedure, which is performed through a small incision, the lamina is completely removedand a discectomy is performed to repair the herniated disc.
• Spinal fusion: This procedure allows two bones to be joined together with screws to form one bone. It may be needed after laminotomy or laminectomy procedures. Spinal fusion stabilizes the spine after these procedures. The location of the herniated disc determines whether this surgical procedure is needed. In general, after this surgical procedure, you are likely to feel pain and find it very difficult to move.

Lumbar Herniated Disc Surgery Process

One day after lumbar herniated disc surgery, you may be able to leave the hospital. In addition, according to the North American Spine Society, people who undergo this surgery earlier have a faster recovery process. Since lumbar herniated disc surgery is performed with different procedures, the recovery process varies accordingly. However, no matter which procedure is applied, there are some situations that the patient should avoid in the first month. Therefore, the patient should not drive a car, sit for a long time, bend and twist the spine, or lift weights for the first month. Consult a doctor before returning to your daily routine and work life. In this process, the doctor decides according to the patient’s state of recovery. Furthermore, the doctor may recommend rehabilitation therapy when recovery is achieved after this surgery. Special programs prepared by physiotherapists can strengthen the spine.

Risks Of Lumbar Herniated Disc Surgery

Some temporary risks can be seen in lumbar herniated disc surgery. As in other surgical procedures, bleeding, infection, wound site, or stitches are among the temporary risks. These risks, especially pain, are overcome after the operation. It is a safe treatment method, as there is no risk to life or property.

Lumbar Herniated Disc Surgery Results

Lumbar disc herniation, which causes crippling pain, is an orthopedic condition that can be resolved by surgery. At this point, lumbar herniated disc surgery is used as a last resort. As a result of this surgery, the person will have a healthy spine. It is, however, insufficient to prevent herniated disc recurrence. Here, some issues that the person should pay attention to after the surgery is at the forefront. Regular and low-paced walking, exercise, and controlling weight are among the important measures that can be taken against lumbar disc herniation. It is also important to avoid stress and smoking at this point. Although there is an improvement according to the procedures applied, most people can recover within a month. As a result, the herniated disc, which negatively affects the person’s life, is eliminated with this surgery.