Discectomy is surgery to remove all or part of a herniated disc that hasn’t responded well after other types of treatment. These surgeries are most often performed in the neck or low back. Depending on the circumstances, discectomy may be performed as a traditional open spine surgery or as a minimally invasive procedure. There is usually a faster recovery when minimally invasive techniques are used.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive discectomies are performed with smaller incisions to access the spine. This typically means reduced blood loss and less soft tissue damage. There should be less post-operative pain and a faster recovery for the patient. The risk of infection is lower compared to open spine surgery. Although these surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, patients are usually able to return home the same day as their procedure.
Open Spine Discectomies
Not all patients are good candidates for minimally invasive discectomy surgery. Open spine surgeries require longer incisions and more muscle retraction. Sometimes a laminectomy will be needed to enable the surgeon to access the herniated disc tissue. Open spine surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The patient may be allowed to go home the same day. However, some people may need to stay in the hospital a day or two.
What is recovery like?
Recovery times from discectomy can vary depending on several factors including severity of the condition, age and general health of the patient, and which type of surgical procedure was used. If additional procedures, such as a laminectomy or spinal fusion were done in conjunction with the discectomy, recovery will be longer.
Pain management during recovery includes medication, rest, and heat/cold therapy. Specific wound care instructions will be given by the surgeon to prevent infection. Showering is generally allowed after a couple of days, but soaking in the bathtub, swimming, or hot tub use must be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
Patients are encouraged to return to walking in short, manageable distances several times a day. There will be restrictions on lifting, bending over, and twisting the torso. Strenuous activities should be avoided until cleared by the surgeon. Driving a vehicle is usually restricted until the patient is no longer taking prescription pain medication. The doctor will advise when the patient can return to work.
When to Expect Full Recovery
Although many people who have had a lumbar discectomy experience significant pain relief from sciatica shortly after surgery, other people notice improvement after 2-3 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks. Those with physically demanding jobs may need a longer recovery period before returning to work.
Patients who have a cervical discectomy may experience immediate relief from arm pain. Full healing can take 6-12 weeks, particularly if the patient also had a cervical fusion.
Atlanta Brain and Spine Care
The spine specialists at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of herniated discs. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
