If you’re suffering from a herniated disc, you may want to learn more about the different treatments available. You can learn about Laminotomy, Microdiscectomy, and ESI, as well as disc replacement. In addition to addressing your pain, these treatments may be able to reduce or eliminate the symptoms of your condition.
Laminotomy
A laminotomy is a surgical procedure that helps to repair a herniated disc. The damage can be caused by a variety of causes, including wear and tear or injury. A herniated disc can press on spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. This condition is commonly referred to as sciatica. It is a sharp shooting pain that often radiates down the back of the leg and may cause numbness.
The surgery is minimally invasive and can be performed with the patient asleep or awake. The surgeon uses a small incision to access the herniated disc. He then inserts an endoscope to increase his field of view. The muscles of the spine are retracted to one side, and a small section of the lamina covering the nerve root is removed. This procedure helps relieve the pressure on the nerves and relieves pain. After the procedure, the patient is typically given antibiotics to prevent infection.
Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy for herniated discs is a surgical procedure that removes part of the herniated disc and relieves pressure on the spinal nerve root. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. After the procedure, most patients are able to return home. However, the procedure is not without risks. Some common complications include infection, blood loss, and problems with bowel or bladder function.
Microdiscectomy for herniated disc is a surgical procedure that can be performed on patients with mild to moderate herniated discs. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the region of the herniated disc and removes it with a microscope. Some patients will experience some residual pain after the procedure, and physical therapy may be necessary to rebuild strength in the lower back and trunk area. These exercises may also prevent further strain on the lumbar spine and help patients return to normal activity.
ESI
ESI, or electro-stimulation, is a common form of treatment for herniated discs. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the spinal canal through an opening between the laminae (flat plates of bone in each vertebra). The laminae form the outer wall of the spinal canal and protect the spinal cord. The procedure is commonly used for radicular or localized low back pain caused by disc herniation.
ESI is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for herniated discs. It provides short-term pain relief and often allows patients to begin physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support the spine. In some cases, additional lumbar ESI treatments may be recommended as needed. However, most healthcare providers limit patients to two to three ESIs per year.
Disk replacement
A herniated disc can be a serious problem and may require disc replacement. This surgery involves inserting a artificial disk in a patient’s back. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Typically, candidates must be younger than 55 and have had symptoms for at least three months or 18 months. This procedure has been used for almost 20 years internationally and in the U.S. for about 12 years. Many people have successfully undergone this procedure and reported good results.
A disk replacement can be performed in either the lumbar or cervical spine. The surgery may be performed on an outpatient basis or in a hospital. Some patients require one or two nights of hospitalization. Recovery time depends on the patient’s condition, but most patients return to work two to four weeks after surgery. However, they may not be able to perform heavy lifting for three to six months after surgery.
For all these procedures, consult The Disc Doctor.
