Our Summary

This study looked at whether it is safe and practical to perform a particular type of back surgery (single-segment lumbar microdiscectomy) without using a drainage tube. The researchers looked at the medical records of 135 people who had this surgery between January 2018 and August 2019. They split these patients into two groups: those who had a drainage tube used during their surgery, and those who didn’t. They then compared a number of factors between these two groups, such as their age, sex, body mass index, how long they stayed in hospital, how much pain they were in after the surgery, how quickly they were able to get out of bed, and whether they had any complications.

The researchers found that there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of their age, sex, body mass index, or other general factors. However, those who did not have a drainage tube used in their surgery had a shorter hospital stay and were able to get out of bed sooner. They also had less pain after the surgery. There was no difference in the rate of complications between the two groups.

Therefore, the study concluded that performing this type of back surgery without a drainage tube may be a good option. It can lead to a quicker recovery period and less pain after the operation, without increasing the risk of complications.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using a drainage tube in single-segment lumbar microdiscectomy?
  2. What benefits were observed in the group that had the surgery without a drainage tube?
  3. Does the absence of a drainage tube in the surgery increase the risk of complications?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about microdiscectomy is that opting for the surgery without a drainage tube may lead to a quicker recovery, less post-operative pain, and similar complication rates compared to using a drainage tube. This option may be a good choice for some patients undergoing single-segment lumbar microdiscectomy.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for microdiscectomy are those who have a herniated disc in their lower back that is causing symptoms such as severe leg pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. These symptoms are often due to pressure on the spinal nerves caused by the herniated disc. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that aims to relieve this pressure by removing the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve.

Candidates for microdiscectomy are usually those who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. They may also have symptoms that are significantly impacting their daily activities and quality of life. Additionally, patients who have a herniated disc that is causing severe or progressive neurological deficits, such as muscle weakness or loss of bowel or bladder control, may also be recommended for microdiscectomy.

Overall, microdiscectomy is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with a herniated disc in the lower back who have not responded to conservative treatments and are experiencing significant symptoms that are affecting their daily life.

Timeline

Before microdiscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness due to a herniated disc.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis.
  3. Patient consults with a spine surgeon to discuss treatment options, including microdiscectomy.
  4. Surgery is scheduled, and pre-operative instructions are given to the patient.

After microdiscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the microdiscectomy surgery, which involves removing the herniated portion of the disc to relieve pressure on the nerve.
  2. Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and pain management.
  3. Patient is encouraged to start moving and walking shortly after surgery to prevent stiffness and promote healing.
  4. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the surgical site, which can be managed with medication.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles and improve mobility.
  6. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about microdiscectomy include:

  1. What is the success rate of microdiscectomy for my specific condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with microdiscectomy?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after microdiscectomy?
  4. Will I need to use a drainage tube during the surgery? What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a drainage tube?
  5. How will my pain be managed after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternatives to microdiscectomy that I should consider?
  7. What is your experience and success rate with performing microdiscectomy procedures?
  8. How soon after the surgery can I expect to return to normal activities and work?
  9. Will I need physical therapy or other treatments after the surgery?
  10. How can I best prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Zhang ZC, Zhang Y, Zhang LZ, Meng H, Du P, Wang XH, Liu XM, Li F, Sun TS. Journal: Zhongguo Gu Shang. 2021 Jul 25;34(11):1072-6. doi: 10.12200/j.issn.1003-0034.2021.11.016. PMID: 34812027