Lumbar Hernia Surgery: Surgical Intervention for a Pain-Free Life

A herniated disc is a condition in which the discs in the spine slip out of place or rupture, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain, numbness and sometimes muscle weakness. This condition is usually characterized by sudden pain in the lower back, numbness in the legs and restricted movement. While many cases of herniated disc can be managed with conservative treatment methods (medications, physical therapy, etc.), surgical intervention may be required in some cases. Herniated disc surgery is an important option to improve the patient's quality of life and provide relief from persistent pain.

What is Lumbar Hernia Surgery?

Herniated disc surgery is the surgical removal of the part of the disc that is compressing the nerves. Surgery is usually recommended for patients who do not benefit from conservative treatment methods (medication, rest, physical therapy). The aim of the surgery is to remove the pressure on the nerve and relieve the patient's pain.

When is Lumbar Hernia Surgery Necessary?

Herniated disc surgery is usually necessary in the following cases:

• Persistence of Pain: Long-lasting and severe back pain persists despite conservative treatment.
• Numbness and numbness in the legs: Persistent numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs.
• Nerve Damage: If the herniated disc causes severe nerve compression, problems with bladder or bowel control.
• Decreased Quality of Life: Severe pain and limitation of movement affecting activities of daily living.

Types of Lumbar Hernia Surgery

There are several different types of herniated disc surgery and the method chosen depends on the patient's condition and the severity of the hernia.

1. Microdiscectomy: This is the most common herniated disc surgery. Only the herniated disc is removed. In this microsurgical procedure, the area is intervened with a small incision and the recovery time is shortened.
2. Laminectomy: A certain part of the spine is removed to relieve pressure on the nerves. It is generally preferred for larger hernias or if there is more than one hernia.
3. Spinal Fusion: In severe cases of herniated discs, two or more vertebrae are connected to each other to restrict movement in the spine and relieve pain.
4. Endoscopic Disc Surgery: Through a small incision and with the help of an endoscopic camera, the herniated part of the disc is removed. This method is less invasive and the recovery time is faster.

Recovery Process After Lumbar Hernia Surgery

The recovery process after herniated disc surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the general health of the patient. In general, however, the following processes are involved:

• Early Days: Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-3 days after surgery. There may be pain for the first few days but this pain can be controlled.
• Movement Restriction: In the first few weeks, it is important to avoid heavy lifting, sudden movements and avoid excessive exercise.
• Physical Therapy: During the recovery process, physical therapy helps to strengthen the muscles and increase the flexibility of the lumbar region.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can return to work within 4-6 weeks, but full recovery can take 3-6 months.
• Long Term Results: Although early success rates are high, patients need to be protected by long-term exercise and attention to back health.

Risks and Complications of Lumbar Hernia Surgery

As with any surgical intervention, there are some risks in herniated disc surgery. These include

• Risk of infection
• Nerve damage
• Bleeding
• Herniation of the disc again
• Inadequate healing or persistent pain

However, these risks are usually minimized by procedures performed by a specialized surgeon.