Lumbar discectomy involves the removal of a herniated disc from the lower spine. This procedure is performed with a laminotomy, which is characterized by the removal of a small piece of ligament and bone from the spine.
Also Known As:
- Back surgery
- Lumbar surgery
- Spine surgery
- Microdiscectomy
- Posterior lumbar discectomy
- Lumbar disc surgery
Conditions Treated with Lumbar Discectomy:
Lumbar discectomy is utilized to treat conditions such as bone spurs, sciatica, degenerative disc pain, arthritis, spinal tumors, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis and herniated lumbar discs.
Non-surgical alternatives to lumbar discectomy include physical therapy, pain relief medications, chemonucleolysis injections and epidural steroid injections. Endoscopic lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical alternative.
Anesthesia with Lumbar Discectomy:
Lumbar discectomy is typically performed under local or regional anesthesia.
Potential Complications from Lumbar Discectomy:
Possible risks following lumbar discectomy include infection, bleeding, blood clotting and a negative reaction to the anesthesia that is used. It is also possible for the patient to experience nerve deterioration, weakness in the lumbar spine region and spinal fluid leaks.
Prognosis after Lumbar Discectomy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following lumbar discectomy is good. Most patients experience pain relief.
Recovery from Lumbar Discectomy:
The total recovery time for lumbar discectomy is two to four weeks.