Types of Surgery for Herniated Disc

Overview

Having a herniated disk is painful and it can sideline you from work and daily activities. There are different degrees of herniation. Since some wear and tear on the spine is normal, your disk and vertebrae change with age. Sometimes these changes can create a herniated disk yet you have no symptoms at all. In some cases the symptoms are mild enough that they can be managed with lifestyle changes or medication. In other cases the pain can be severe and everyday activities can become extremely difficult. At this point surgery may be necessary. There are different types of surgeries that can be used to treat a herniated disk. Its good to explore your options before deciding what to do.

Identification

If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disk it means that the jelly like nucleus of your disk has broken through the outer edge of the disk. It is sometimes also called a ruptured disk. The nucleus is now protruding into your spine where it can irritate or even compress various nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness and muscle weakness. If the nerve is severely compressed you may lose functioning and control over your bladder and bowels. Surgery may be necessary to relieve this pressure and your symptoms.

Endoscopic Procedures

This type of surgery is the least invasive. Your surgeon will insert a mechanical device and a needle into your back. He will then remove just the protruding or damaged part of your disk. This surgery is not always effective because your surgeon can not fully see what is being removed and if there is any other damage. You will need to discuss with your doctor whether or not this is a good option for you.

Laminotomy and Discectomy

A discectomy and laminectomy remove either the whole disk or just the part that is protruding along with a small piece of your vertebrae. The goal is to remove the part of the disk that is causing symptoms and to create more space between the vertebra so nerves are not being compressed. It is not as invasive as the techniques used below and the healing time is faster. This surgery is good for those with minimal damage because it maintains some of the normal integrity of the spine.

Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion surgery involves removing the entire damaged disk. The vertebrae above and below that disk are fused together using bone grafts and metal rods. This is done to remove pressure and because movement of these particular vertebrae may be partly causing your pain. By removing the damaged disk and fusing the vertebrae to restrict movement, your surgeon may be able to relieve your symptoms. This type of surgery can limit your mobility and sometimes bone spurs can form.

Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty is the term for artificial disk replacement surgery. Similar to spinal fusion the damaged disk is removed and an artificial disk is put in its place. Artificial disks can be made of metal, plastic or a combination of the two. While this type of surgery is more extensive, if successful, you can get relief from your symptoms while maintaining range of motion in your spine.