Lumbar Discectomy

 What Is Lumbar Discectomy?

Lumbar discectomy is a procedure to treat damaged discs in the lumbar region, or lower back. This surgery involves removing the damaged disc and implanting a disc replacement or stabilizing the spine with a lumbar spinal fusion. The result is immediate and lasting relief from pain.

The spine is a complex structure composed of many interlocking bones called vertebrae. Each pair of vertebrae is separated by a pad of tissue. These pads, called spinal discs, feature a rubbery exterior and a soft gel core. They perform a vital role in absorbing shock in the spine, allowing vertebrae to flex and twist without friction. If a disc becomes damaged, these functions are impeded. This can result in intense chronic pain and even nerve damage if left untreated.

When Is Lumbar Discectomy Recommended?

Lumbar discectomy is used to treat a lumbar herniated disc, which is also called a lumbar slipped disc. A herniated disc is one that has torn or ruptured, allowing the soft core to bulge through the disc wall. If the gel bulges into the spinal cavity, it may put pressure on the spinal cord or a root nerve. This results in lumbar myelopathy or lumbar radiculopathy. These conditions come with a range of debilitating symptoms caused by nerve impingement, including:

• Numbness or tingling sensations in the legs and feet
• Sciatica, or pain that travels from the hips into the thigh and leg
• Pain that gets worse when sitting, standing, or walking
• Weakness in the legs and feet
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

Most herniated disc treatment begins conservatively. Methods like rest, pain management medication, steroid injections, and gentle exercises may help to relieve symptoms in the short term. However, this approach often fails to provide long-term relief. The pain may be too severe to treat non-invasively, or it may continue to return despite treatment. In this case, surgery may be suggested as a permanent solution to back pain.

Who Performs Lumbar Discectomy at NU-Spine?

Treatments at NU-Spine are performed by the resident neurosurgeon, Branko Skovrlj, MD. He is among the few neurosurgeons in New Jersey to focus solely on the spine. His expertise extends to all types of spine surgery, but he favors minimally invasive spine treatments. Dr. Skovrlj treats patients throughout New Jersey but is known worldwide for his innovations. He contributes to research efforts to discover new, better ways to treat spine conditions.

Though he is world-renowned, Dr. Skovrlj remains committed to his community. When it comes to patient care, he understands that it may be difficult to discuss pain, especially when it impacts quality of life or self-confidence. He treats patients with compassion and a personal touch that helps them open up about their condition and discuss potential solutions.

How Is Lumbar Discectomy Performed?

Lumbar discectomy is performed under general anesthesia, meaning patients are asleep during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Skovrlj performs the following steps:

1. Dr. Skovrlj makes an incision on the lower back near the ruptured disc.
2. Dr. Skovrlj uses a surgical dilator to gently pull aside the back muscles, letting him access the problematic disc with minimal cutting.
3. He inserts a tiny camera called an endoscope into the space created by the dilators. The camera is connected to a computer monitor, helping Dr. Skovrlj guide his tools.
4. If necessary, Dr. Skovrlj performs a lumbar laminectomy. This involves removing a small piece from the back of the vertebrae, creating extra space for Dr. Skovrlj to work.
5. Dr. Skovrlj uses precise tools to remove the herniated disc.
6. He performs a disc replacement or spinal fusion to restore function to the spine.
7. He closes the incision and protects the site with surgical dressing.

The whole procedure can be completed in about one hour. More time may be needed if Dr. Skovrlj decides that spinal fusion is necessary. Afterward, the patient wakes up from anesthesia in a recovery room. Most patients will go home the same day as their procedure, though there is a chance that one night at the hospital will be necessary to prevent complications.

Recovery After Lumbar Discectomy

Once the patient is cleared to go home, Dr. Skovrlj will provide guidance for recovery. The patient should be careful to follow all his instructions to prevent complications during the healing process. Directions may include:

• Protecting the incision site when bathing
• Limiting strenuous activities that may stress the spine
• Doing gentle exercises to strengthen back muscles
• Managing pain using prescribed or over-the-counter medications
• Monitoring the incision for infection
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment

The expected recovery time depends on the individual. Most patients, however, can return to light activity after a week or two. A full recovery and return to normal activities takes around six weeks.

Outcomes of Lumbar Discectomy

Lumbar discectomy is a proven procedure with high success rates. Though there may be some pain caused by the surgery itself, most patients experience significant relief immediately after treatment. Nerve pain is eliminated, and patients may be able to reduce or stop taking pain medications.

Discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure. This means it is performed through the smallest incision possible while avoiding cutting through muscle. This causes less stress to the body, reducing the amount of post-surgical pain and bleeding. It also allows for a faster recovery with a lower risk of infection or other complications.

Find Lower Back Pain Relief Near You in New Jersey

If you are struggling with chronic back pain, don’t wait for relief. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Our patients experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spinal treatments, like lumbar discectomy, helping them live without pain. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations near you in New Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lumbar Discectomy

What does lumbar discectomy involve?

Lumbar discectomy is a lower back surgery to remove a damaged spinal disc. The disc may be replaced with an implant, or the vertebrae may be stabilized with a spinal fusion.

When is lumbar discectomy recommended?

Not all back pain is treated with surgery. Most physicians begin with conservative treatments if possible. Lumbar discectomy is recommended when these treatments fail to provide relief or when the pain is severe enough to cause disability.

Is lumbar discectomy effective at relieving pain?

Lumbar discectomy is highly effective at relieving pain caused by a herniated disc. Most patients experience significant relief right after surgery.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery refers to surgeries that use smaller incisions than normal. The reduced cutting allows for a faster recovery with less pain, bleeding, or infection risk.