The sciatic nerve consists of several nerve roots that exit thespinal cordin the lower back.
Whensciatica symptomscannot be relieved with conservative treatments, surgery may be recommended.
This may involve procedures called discectomy, laminectomy, and spinal fusion surgery.
What Is Sciatica Surgery?
The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the body.
Compression of the sciatic nerve can cause radiating pain to any of these body parts.
This includes the risk of:
How Common Are Surgical Complications?
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sciatica Surgery?
Sciatica surgery is recommended when conservative treatments fail to improve symptoms, generally for a period of 12 months.
Sciatica surgery is not a solution for everyone.
You should expect to stay overnight for at least one night in the hospital.
The length of stay will depend on the jot down of procedure you are scheduled to undergo.
Spinal fusion surgeries are more involved and typically require three to five days.
What to Expect From Sciatica Surgery
Sciatica surgery is performed in an operating room of a hospital.
The surgical team will use the hospital bed to transport you in and out of the operating room.
You will be givengeneral anesthesiato put you fully asleep.
Once sedated, anendotracheal tubewill be inserted into your mouth and windpipe to deliver oxygen from amechanical ventilator.
Your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen will be monitored the entire time.
Once fully asleep, you will be rolled onto your stomach with your chest and sides supported by pillows.
You will then be wheeled to the postoperative room to recover from the anesthesia.
After the Surgery
Upon waking, most people will experience pain and wooziness.
Moving after spinal surgery is important to prevent blood clots and aid with healing.
However, care must be taken to avoid injuring yourself.
Recovery From Sciatica Surgery
The time it takes to recover from sciatica surgery can vary.
Full recovery can take betweensix months and one year.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach as this places strain on the lower back and can hinder recovery.
If you are given a back brace, wear it at all times except when lying down and sleeping.
Your healthcare provider will advise you when the brace is no longer necessary.
Summary
Sciatica surgery is an option if conservative treatments fail.
Complications from spinal surgery are common, and symptoms may continue even after treatment.
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