Surgery for the treatment of herniated discs, cervicals, dorsals or lumbars is indicated in cases where there is no improvement in symptoms of pain or discomfort, even with treatment based on medications and physiotherapy, when there are signs of loss of strength or sensitivity. This procedure causes scratches, such as a limitation of infection column movement, for example.
The type of surgery may vary and the traditional opening of the skin can be performed using a column, using newer and less invasive techniques, using a microscope for example. Recovery can range from accuracy to injury and technique used, so rehabilitation physiotherapy can help patients improve symptoms and daily activities more quickly.
- The type of surgery may vary depending on the location of the hernia.
- The technique available in the hospital.
- Or the accuracy of each patient’s needs.
- As determined by the orthopedist or neurosurgeon.
- The main types are:.
This is done by opening the skin, with a cut to release the spine. The choice of place of access to the spine is based on the nearest place to access the disc, which can be forward, being common in cervical, lateral or extended hernias. , being common in the lumbar hernia.
It is done with access to the ground for the recovery of the injured area. The choice of place to access the spine is based on the injury and experience of the orthopedic surgeon.
This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, allowing part of the damaged intervertebral disc to be completely removed, then a material can be used to attach the 2 vertebrae or artificial material can be used to replace the removed disc. Surgical time varies, depending on each person’s hernia type and situation, but lasts about 2 hours.
Minimally invasive surgery uses techniques that allow for less skin opening, allowing for less movement of structures surrounding the spine, and is faster and less at risk of complications, such as bleeding and infections.
The main techniques used
Minimally invasive surgery can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation, lasting approximately 1 hour or less. During surgery, a laser radiofrequency device may be used to remove the hernia part of the disc, so this type of surgery is also known as laser surgery.
Herniated disc surgery may present some complications, but the risk is low, mainly due to increasingly modern techniques and devices being used. The main complications that can occur are:
Because of these risks, surgery is reserved for patients with unstoppable symptoms, when there is no improvement with other forms of herniated disc treatment.
The postoperative period varied according to surgery, depending on the internment time of about 2 days in minimally invasive surgery and could be extended to 5 days in conventional surgery.
The ability to perform activities such as handling or return to work is greater in minimally invasive surgery; in traditional surgery, returning to work requires a significant amount of rest; in bad activities, such as physical exercise, discharge is due to the surgeon’s assessment and the best symptoms.
Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed by your doctor should be used during recovery to relieve pain. Rehabilitation physiotherapy sessions should also be initiated, with techniques to help recover movements and maintain good posture. He knows more about post-spine care.