Herniated disc surgery is the surgical treatment of a condition in which a slipped, ruptured or herniated intervertebral disc in the lumbar spine presses on nerves, causing severe pain and other neurological symptoms. Surgery is usually preferred in patients who do not respond to conservative treatment methods and aims to relieve pain and restore function by removing pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord.
How is a herniated disc surgery performed?
Herniated disc surgery usually involves the following steps:
Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure that the surgery is comfortable and painless. This means that the patient will be completely unconscious during the operation and will not feel any pain.
Surgical Methods:
- Discectomy: It is the removal of part or all of the herniated disc. This procedure reduces pressure on the nerve roots and relieves pain.
- Laminectomy: The removal of a piece of bone at the back of the spine called the lamina. This procedure is used to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.
- Fusion Surgery: The disc between two or more vertebrae is removed and the vertebrae are fused with metal plates or screws to reduce mobility between the vertebrae and provide long-term stability.
Closure and Recovery: After the surgical procedure is completed, the surgical site is closed with sutures and protected with sterile bandages. The postoperative recovery process varies depending on the general health status of the patient and the extent of the surgery performed.
What are the Risks of Lumbar Hernia Surgery?
Herniated disc surgery, like other surgical procedures, involves some risks. These may include the following:
Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery. Keeping the surgical site clean and sterile reduces this risk.
Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after surgery. The risk of bleeding varies depending on the surgical site and the general health of the patient.
Nerve Damage: There is a risk of damage to the nerve roots. This can lead to pain, numbness or muscle weakness after surgery.
Pain: Postoperative pain may persist in some patients and may require additional treatment.
Wound Healing Problems: The healing process at the surgical site may sometimes take longer than expected and may require additional intervention.
How Many Hours Does Lumbar Hernia Surgery Take?
The duration of herniated disc surgery usually varies between 1 and 3 hours. This time may vary depending on the complexity of the surgery, the procedure performed and the individual condition of the patient. The duration of the surgery can be influenced by factors such as the surgeon's experience and the patient's response to anesthesia.
After Lumbar Hernia Surgery
The recovery process after herniated disc surgery must be managed carefully. Important points to consider after surgery:
- Pain Management: Painkillers are used to keep postoperative pain under control. The medications and dosages recommended by the doctor should be followed.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy after surgery is important to strengthen the back muscles and increase mobility. A physical therapy program can speed up the patient's recovery process and support functional return.
- Activity Restrictions: After surgery, excessive movements should be avoided and the doctor's recommendations should be followed. It is recommended to avoid intense physical activities and to sit in the correct position.
Nutrition After Lumbar Hernia Surgery
A balanced diet should be followed to support recovery after surgery. Protein-rich foods and foods rich in vitamins and minerals should be consumed. It is especially recommended to drink plenty of water, consume fiber-rich foods and avoid processed foods to help the healing process. A healthy diet supports the immune system and speeds up the recovery process after surgery.
What are the side effects of herniated disc surgery?
Side effects of herniated disc surgery may include
Pain: Temporary or permanent pain may be experienced in the postoperative area. This may require additional treatment.
Numbness: Temporary numbness or tingling sensation may occur due to the nerves in the surgical area being affected.
Swelling: Swelling may occur at the surgical site. This swelling usually subsides within a few days, but severe cases may require additional treatment.
Wound Healing Problems: Wound healing after surgery can sometimes take longer than expected. It is important to pay attention to wound care during the healing process.
