Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new technique in minimally invasive spine surgery for treating far-lateral disc herniations (FLDH), a condition in which a disc in the spine bulges out of place and presses on a nerve, causing pain and numbness. The traditional method of treating this condition involves a large amount of tissue dissection, blood loss, and a long recovery period after surgery. However, the use of a minimally invasive retractor system has significantly reduced these issues.

In this study, the researchers used a tubular retractor, a tool used to hold tissues apart during surgery, and placed it on the caudal transverse process, a part of the vertebra in the lower back. This new method was applied on a woman who had a disc herniation on her right side, causing pain and numbness.

The results of the surgery were impressive. The patient showed a significant reduction in her pain and weakness after just 2 weeks and 5 weeks post-operation. At a 6-month follow-up, she had almost complete relief from her symptoms, including the numbness in her foot.

The researchers conclude that this new method of positioning the tubular retractor provides an even more efficient approach to minimally invasive spine surgery for FLDH, improving upon already established techniques.

FAQs

  1. What is a far-lateral disc herniation (FLDH)?
  2. How does the new minimally invasive spine surgery technique for treating FLDH work?
  3. What were the results of the patient who underwent the new minimally invasive spine surgery technique for FLDH?

Doctor’s Tip

Tip for patients undergoing a microdiscectomy: Discuss with your doctor the possibility of using a minimally invasive retractor system for your surgery, as it may lead to reduced tissue damage, blood loss, and a quicker recovery time.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended microdiscectomy are those who have a disc herniation that is causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or feet. This procedure is often recommended for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. Additionally, patients who are experiencing severe symptoms that are affecting their daily activities and quality of life may be good candidates for microdiscectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and treatment options with a spine specialist to determine if microdiscectomy is the best course of action for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before the microdiscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences pain and numbness in the affected area.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan to confirm the presence of a disc herniation.
  3. Patient consults with a spine surgeon to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of a microdiscectomy.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and pre-operative preparations are made.

After the microdiscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the minimally invasive microdiscectomy procedure using a tubular retractor.
  2. Patient experiences significant reduction in pain and weakness within 2 weeks post-operation.
  3. Patient continues to see improvement in symptoms at the 5-week mark.
  4. At a 6-month follow-up, the patient has almost complete relief from symptoms, including numbness in the foot.
  5. Patient may undergo physical therapy or rehabilitation to aid in recovery and strengthen the back muscles.
  6. Patient returns to normal activities and enjoys a better quality of life with reduced pain and improved mobility.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a microdiscectomy procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery period after a microdiscectomy surgery?
  3. What are the success rates of microdiscectomy in treating far-lateral disc herniations?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  5. How soon can I return to work or normal activities after the surgery?
  6. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should be aware of after the surgery?
  7. What is the likelihood of the disc herniation reoccurring after a microdiscectomy?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for a microdiscectomy?
  9. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of pain relief and improvement in symptoms?
  10. How experienced are you in performing microdiscectomy surgeries for far-lateral disc herniations?

Reference

Authors: Echt M, Bakare A, Fessler RG. Journal: Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 May 5;58(5):640. doi: 10.3390/medicina58050640. PMID: 35630057