If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from disc herniation, you may be wondering how to treat it. Many treatment options are available in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but not all are created equal. Here is a look at some of the most common procedures which Pittsburgh disc herniation specialists use to treat this condition.
Microdiscectomy
This procedure is used to treat a herniated or ruptured disc. It uses a microscope to allow the surgeon better vision during the surgery, which helps ensure that all of the affected tissue does not exist. It is one of the most common surgical procedures for people with this condition, and many patients report complete recovery within six months after surgery.
Lumbar Laminectomy
This procedure involves removing part of the lamina to ease pressure on the affected nerve. It often occurs in conjunction with a microdiscectomy or when there has been damage to multiple discs. The surgeon will remove all or part of the lamina and remove disc fragments pressing against the spine.
Minimally invasive surgery is now possible thanks to the use of endoscopic technology. It allows for better visualization of the affected area, making it easier for surgeons to determine whether a microdiscectomy or lumbar laminectomy is necessary. There is also less risk of damage to surrounding tissue because fewer incisions are involved.
Lumbar Fusion Surgery
Lumbar fusion surgery is a procedure used to treat chronic lower back pain. This surgery involves fusing two or more lumbar vertebrae to stabilize the spine. This surgery is crucial when other treatment options have failed and are considered the last resort. The success rate for this surgery is high, but some risks are involved, including infection and nerve damage.
Disc Replacement Surgery
This is a newer procedure that has been used in the last few years. It is not yet approved for use in the United States but has been approved in Europe and Australia. It involves replacing damaged discs with artificial ones that work similarly to natural discs. The advantage of this procedure over others is that it usually has a shorter recovery time and fewer complications.
Decompression Procedures
The surgeon may recommend decompression procedures to relieve pressure on the affected nerve in some cases. This is common when there is damage to more than one disc in a patient’s back or when a patient doesn’t qualify for other types of surgery.
Surgery may be recommended when there is nerve damage in addition to the disc herniation. Different treatments can help in this situation, but they depend on an individual’s specific needs.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is a procedure that involves removing the damaged disc and joining the vertebrae together. A bone graft, screws, or a metal plate may be used in this process to help create a stable structure for the vertebrae. This surgery can often be completed through smaller incisions than other procedures because it doesn’t involve removing muscles.
If you are suffering from disc herniation, many treatment options are available to help get your life back on track. The decision about which procedure is best for you will depend on the severity of your condition and how much pain it has caused in the past. Consider visiting the best disc herniation specialist.
