Our Summary

This research paper investigates the changes in the size of spinal discs and the openings in the spine (foramen) after a specific type of back surgery known as open lumbar microdiscectomy (OLM). This surgery is used to treat patients suffering from a herniated disc in the lower back. The researchers used MRI scans to measure the size of discs and foramen before and two years after the surgery.

Contrary to the common belief that the disc height and foramen size may decrease after surgery, causing long-term pain, the study found that there may be an increase in these sizes after OLM. On average, the height of the discs increased by 5.5% and the foramen also increased in size.

However, the authors emphasized that these findings need to be confirmed by larger and longer-term studies to be sure of the results.

FAQs

  1. What is open lumbar microdiscectomy (OLM) surgery and what conditions does it treat?
  2. What were the findings about changes in disc height and foramen size after OLM surgery?
  3. Are the findings about disc and foramen size increase after OLM surgery conclusive?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about microdiscectomy is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including proper rest, physical therapy, and avoiding activities that could strain the back. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help prevent future disc herniation. It’s also important to attend follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a microdiscectomy are those suffering from a herniated disc in the lower back that is causing severe pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs. These symptoms may be due to pressure on the spinal nerves caused by the herniated disc. Patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections may be considered for microdiscectomy. Additionally, patients who experience difficulty walking, standing, or performing daily activities due to their symptoms may also be candidates for this surgery.

Timeline

Before microdiscectomy:

  • Patient experiences persistent lower back pain, leg pain, and weakness due to a herniated disc in the lower back.
  • Patient undergoes a series of diagnostic tests such as MRI and X-rays to confirm the diagnosis.
  • After consulting with a spine surgeon, the decision is made to proceed with open lumbar microdiscectomy (OLM) surgery.

After microdiscectomy:

  • Patient undergoes the OLM surgery, which involves removing a portion of the herniated disc that is pressing on the spinal nerves.
  • In the immediate post-operative period, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the surgical site.
  • Over the following weeks and months, the patient undergoes physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected area.
  • After two years, the patient undergoes follow-up MRI scans to assess the changes in the size of the spinal discs and foramen.
  • The study finds that there is an increase in the size of the discs and foramen after OLM, contrary to the belief that they may decrease post-surgery.
  • The patient may experience a reduction in symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, and weakness due to the successful removal of the herniated disc.

Overall, the patient’s experience before and after microdiscectomy involves a series of diagnostic tests, surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care to address the symptoms of a herniated disc in the lower back.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What is the success rate of microdiscectomy in treating herniated discs?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with microdiscectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery period after microdiscectomy?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  5. What are the chances of the herniated disc reoccurring after microdiscectomy?
  6. How long do the effects of microdiscectomy typically last?
  7. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities after microdiscectomy?
  8. How soon can I expect to see improvement in my symptoms after the surgery?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments to microdiscectomy that I should consider?
  10. What follow-up appointments or monitoring will be necessary after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Şimşek AT, Baysal B, Adam BE, Çalış F, Topçam A, Demirkol M, Doğan MB, Binguler AHE, Karaarslan N, Balak N. Journal: J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2024;37(1):75-87. doi: 10.3233/BMR-220371. PMID: 37599519