Disc protrusion surgery is almost always the last resort for people suffering from pain and other symptoms related to spinal nerve compression. In most cases, disc protrusion remains asymptomatic. Yet, if a portion of a protruding intervertebral disc makes contact with a nerve root or the spinal cord, symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and/or muscle weakness can occur. More often than not, these symptoms can be managed using a combination of conservative, nonsurgical treatment methods.

When To Consider Disc Protrusion Surgery

There are many factors that figure into what form conservative treatment will pursue as you attempt to manage nerve compression symptoms related to a disc protrusion. Your overall health is one factor that weighs into your treatment plan, as is the location within the spine of the compressed nerve. In general, though, patients are able to find relief using a combination of non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), exercise, stretching, corticosteroid injections, applications of heat or ice, and posture modification training with a physical therapist. If symptoms remain chronic after several weeks or months of conservative treatment, it may be time to discuss your surgical options with your doctor.

Types of Disc Protrusion Surgery

The type of disc protrusion surgery your doctor recommends will depend on many of the same factors that go into developing your conservative treatment plan. However, the most important factor in determining the type of surgery necessary is the location of the compressed or pinched nerve. The less accessible the affected nerve, the more likely that an invasive back or neck surgery will be required to achieve full decompression. Here are the types of surgery used to decompress a nerve affected by a protruding intervertebral disc:

– Discectomy – open back surgery that involves the complete removal of the affected intervertebral disc.

– Laminectomy – open back surgery that entails the complete removal of the lamina, a bony segment that is part of the vertebral arch.

– Corpectomy – open back surgery that involves the complete removal of the vertebral body.

– Foraminectomy – an open back procedure that involves the removal of a large amount of bone and tissue that form the foramina, the openings through which nerves exit the spinal column.

– Spinal fusion – the use of metal plates, rods, and screws, along with bone graft material, to permanently immobilize one or more vertebral segments. Spinal fusion is usually performed in conjunction with the procedures mentioned above.

– Laminotomy – This surgery can be performed as a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure that involves the removal of the smallest amount of the lamina necessary to relieve nerve compression.

– Foraminotomy – This surgery also can be performed as a minimally invasive, endoscopic procedure that involves the removal of a small portion of the foramina in order to decompress the affected nerve root.

Choosing a Surgeon

If you are determined to undergo disc protrusion surgery, be sure to choose a surgeon that you trust completely. Trust is earned by a surgeon through experience, particularly with the type of surgery you are about to undergo, as there is more risk involved with spine surgery than, for example, surgery to remove a skin tag. Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations, but don’t leave it at that. Find out how often a surgeon has performed your type of surgery, and how successful he or she has been over the years. Ask your family members and friends about back or neck surgeons they’ve come across in the past. Check into the surgeon’s credentials with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and other reputable medical organizations. Finally, choose a surgeon whose demeanor puts you at ease.

Research the Risks and Potential Side Effects

Another important step to take before undergoing disc protrusion surgery is to learn as much as you can about the risks and potential side effects related to your chosen procedure. Success is never guaranteed, but the more you fortify yourself mentally and physically to meet the potential hazards of spine surgery, the better prepared you will be if you are forced to confront them.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient alternatives for disc protrusion surgery as well as procedures for several other spinal conditions.

Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective disc protrusion surgery and other procedures. http://www.laserspineinstitute.com/back_problems/disc_extrusion/treat/surgery

Author Bio: Patrick Foote is the Director of eBusiness at Laser Spine Institute, the leader in endoscopic spine surgery. Laser Spine Institute specializes in safe and effective outpatient alternatives for disc protrusion surgery as well as procedures for several other spinal conditions.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Disc protrusion surgery