Herniated discsurgery is an operation in which a spinal disc that has herniated is cut away from a nearbynerve.
The procedure is typically performed by an orthopedic or neurological surgeon.
Theresa Chiechi / Verywell
What Is Surgery for a Herniated Disc?
Theresa Chiechi / Verywell
This comes up whenever the gel material inside a spinal disc pushes out of place and compresses a nerve.
This is also known as a bulged, slipped, or ruptured disc.
Typically, herniated discs occur in adults, so children are not considered for this procedure.
Brianna Gilmartin / Verywell
Most often, the procedure is performed as an elective planned operation.
In severe cases of spinal nerve compression causing acute paralysis, an emergency surgery may be performed.
There are different types of surgery for herniated discs.
Be sure to speak with your practitioner to understand which surgery you will be having.
Contraindications
There are some people who should not have herniated disc surgery.
you’re free to imagine spinal discs as being tiny jelly donuts that are between your spinal bones.
When this occurs, the jelly presses up against a spinal nerve.
This may cause pain, limited motion, or weakness to occur.
How to Prepare
Prior to having herniated disc surgery, youmustattempt to manage your pain conservatively.
If conservative measures fail to produce results, you may require surgery, and you may need to prepare.
Your surgeon will meet with you and discuss your surgery with you.
You will be brought to the operating room, and the surgery will be performed.
Most people spend one evening in the hospital, but more recently, outpatient spinal surgery is taking place.
In that case, you will be able to return home that same day to begin your recovery.
Recovery
Recovery from herniated disc surgery begins immediately after the procedure.
You may be advised tosit with proper postureand avoid heavy lifting, twisting, or bending after the surgery.
You may also be required to wear a brace.
Many people benefit from performinggentle exercisesfor spinal range of motion, flexibility, and strength after the operation.
Working with a physical therapist may be indicated.
Most people recover from herniated disc surgery in about four to eight weeks.
Your specific course of recovery may be more or less depending on the severity of your condition.
You will likely visit with your surgeon immediately after your operation.
Most people go home the day after surgery.
After about one week, you will follow up with your surgeon.
They will examine your incision, and remove sutures provided that things are healing properly.
You may be referred to physical therapy after surgery to aid in your recovery.
Your surgeon will monitor your progress and ensure that things are going according to plan.
Surgery for a herniated disc involves cutting away disc material to relieve pressure on your spinal nerves.
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