Our Summary

This research study looks at patients who had a second, more aggressive surgery after their first surgery for a slipped disc in their lower back didn’t work. This happens quite often, and the second surgery is usually a bit more intense due to changes in the body’s structure, like scar tissue. The study tracked 22 people who had this second surgery between 2014 and 2019. The researchers looked at various factors and checked in with the patients about 29 months after their surgery. They found that the patients’ pain levels and overall spine health improved significantly after the second surgery. So, the researchers concluded that this more intense second surgery can be an effective and safe way to treat recurring slipped discs in the lower back.

FAQs

  1. How often is a second, more aggressive surgery required when the first surgery for a slipped disc doesn’t work?
  2. What factors did the research study consider when evaluating the effectiveness of the second surgery for slipped discs?
  3. What were the findings of the study regarding the impact of the second, more aggressive surgery on patients’ pain levels and overall spine health?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about microdiscectomy is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding heavy lifting, practicing good posture, engaging in physical therapy, and gradually returning to normal activities as advised by your healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and proper nutrition can help support your recovery and prevent future disc issues.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for microdiscectomy are those who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and injections for their herniated disc or sciatica symptoms. Additionally, patients who have persistent leg pain, weakness, or numbness due to a herniated disc or spinal stenosis may be recommended for microdiscectomy. Patients with severe or worsening neurological symptoms such as difficulty walking or loss of bladder or bowel control may also be candidates for microdiscectomy.

Timeline

Before microdiscectomy:

  • Patient experiences persistent lower back pain, leg pain, and weakness
  • Patient undergoes imaging tests such as MRI to diagnose a herniated disc
  • Patient may try conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and epidural injections

After microdiscectomy:

  • Patient undergoes microdiscectomy surgery to remove the herniated disc material pressing on the spinal nerves
  • Recovery period typically involves pain management, physical therapy, and restricted activity
  • Patient gradually experiences relief from lower back and leg pain, as well as improved mobility and function
  • Follow-up appointments and imaging tests are done to monitor the success of the surgery and ensure proper healing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with microdiscectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after microdiscectomy surgery?
  3. What can I expect in terms of pain management after the surgery?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  5. How likely is it that I will need a second surgery after the initial microdiscectomy?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before undergoing microdiscectomy?
  7. How successful is microdiscectomy in relieving pain and improving spine health in the long term?
  8. How soon can I return to work or regular activities after the surgery?
  9. What steps can I take to prevent future disc issues or the need for additional surgeries in the future?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take post-surgery to aid in recovery and prevent complications?

Reference

Authors: Ahsan MK, Hossain MR, Khan MSI, Zaman N, Ahmed N, Montemurro N, Chaurasia B. Journal: Surg Neurol Int. 2020 Nov 25;11:404. doi: 10.25259/SNI_540_2020. eCollection 2020. PMID: 33365167