Lumbar Discectomy Surgery In Noida

Lumbar discectomy is a widely performed surgical procedure aimed at addressing issues related to ruptured or herniated spinal discs. These discs serve as cushioning between the spinal vertebrae, and when they become herniated, they can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain in the legs or arms. This procedure is particularly effective for relieving pain caused by nerve compression due to herniated discs and involves minimal incisions.

Alternate Name

Discectomy

Body Location

Lower back (lumbar region of the spinal canal)

Procedure Type

Surgical

Preparation for Surgery

Before undergoing lumbar discectomy, proper preparation is essential:

Inquiries: Patients should ask pertinent questions regarding the procedure, including the reasons for surgery, expected outcomes, benefits, risks, potential complications, qualifications needed, alternative tests, and associated costs. It's also crucial to discuss the implications of not proceeding with surgery.

Diagnostic Tests: The attending physician will conduct a thorough physical examination and may recommend additional tests, such as MRI scans.

Medication Adjustments: Patients on existing medications should discuss these with their doctor, who may adjust dosages or provide specific pre-surgical instructions.

Food and Drink Restrictions: Patients should arrive at the hospital in the morning and refrain from eating or drinking after midnight before the scheduled surgery.

How the Surgery is Performed

• The lumbar discectomy typically lasts about an hour and follows these steps:
• The patient receives anesthesia, with the anesthesiologist monitoring vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate.
• The surgeon makes a small incision near the affected disc, using specialized imaging for guidance. A wire is inserted into the intervertebral space, followed by a larger tube.
• The surgeon may insert a second tube as necessary to push aside tissues around the vertebrae.
• Once the tissues are moved, all tubes except the largest are removed, and the surgeon excises the herniated disc and performs any required repairs.
• Finally, all tubes are taken out, and the incision is sutured and bandaged.

Post-Operative Care

After the outpatient procedure, patients can usually return home within a few hours. It is important to have support for transportation. Following the post-surgical instructions, such as avoiding heavy lifting or sudden movements, is essential. A lumbar corset brace may be provided for support during the recovery phase, typically for about a week, after which physiotherapy may be recommended.

Patients should monitor the incision site for excess drainage and report any pain or fever to their healthcare provider.

Risks and Complications

Although lumbar discectomy has a high success rate of 85-90%, potential risks and complications may include:

• Recurrent Herniation: There is a 10-15% risk that another disc fragment may herniate in the future.
• Infection: The incision site may become infected, leading to complications.
• Neurological Issues: Some individuals might experience weakness or other neurological symptoms due to improper recovery or prolonged effects.
• Spinal Fluid Leakage: Injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels can lead to leakage of spinal fluid.

Recovery Process

Many patients report immediate pain relief following surgery, though some may have a slower recovery. While mild pain at the incision site is common, it can generally be managed with oral pain medications. Patients are typically monitored overnight before being discharged the next day.

Engaging in light activities such as walking or sitting is encouraged, while strenuous tasks, heavy lifting, and excessive bending should be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a brace needed for sleeping post-surgery?

Generally, a brace is not required for sleep after lumbar discectomy. Your surgeon will provide guidelines on sleeping positions and necessary precautions.

Are there dietary restrictions following the procedure?

No specific dietary restrictions exist post-surgery, but maintaining a balanced diet and hydration supports healing.

Can older adults undergo lumbar discectomy?

Yes, older adults can have this surgery, although age and overall health will influence the decision.

Will physical therapy be necessary?

Physical therapy is often recommended to enhance strength, flexibility, and mobility post-surgery, with guidance provided on appropriate exercises.

What is the cost of lumbar discectomy in Delhi?

Costs vary based on hospital facilities, surgeon fees, procedure type, length of stay, and additional services. It’s best to consult specific hospitals in Delhi for accurate estimates.

How long do the benefits last?

The benefits of lumbar discectomy can be long-lasting, depending on individual health, the extent of disc damage, and adherence to recovery protocols.

Are there non-surgical alternatives?

Non-surgical options include physical therapy, medication, epidural injections, and chiropractic care. If these methods are ineffective, surgery may be recommended.