Herniated Disc Surgery

Types of Herniated Disc Surgery

If weeks or months of non-operative, conservative treatments have not helped you to find lasting pain relief from a herniated disc, surgery may become an option. When discussing surgery with your primary care physician or a herniated disc specialist, you should keep in mind that there are a variety of herniated disc surgeries available, all with their respective risks and benefits. Do some of your own research about the different types of spine surgeries so that you will have the information to ask your doctor questions about which, if any, surgery would be right for you.

Comparing Invasive and Minimally Invasive Procedures

Invasive and minimally invasive procedures are available to address a herniated disc and it will be important for you to talk to your doctor, do your own research, and gather information about each. The most common type of open back or neck herniated disc surgery is a spinal fusion, which involves the following:

• A large incision and removal of a portion of the spinal anatomy
• A bone graft and stabilizing hardware
• Hospitalization and general anesthesia
• Dissection of muscles or ligaments
• A lengthy rehabilitation process

On the other hand, an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure involves:

• An incision of less than one inch
• Endoscopic technology
• No hardware or bone grafts
• Local anesthesia and deep IV sedation, not general anesthesia
• An expedited recovery period

Which Procedure Is Right For Me?

Talk to your doctor about which type of procedure he or she recommends, but if you feel that the risks, lengthy recuperation, and uncertainty of an open spine herniated disc surgery are deterring you from finding lasting relief, consider contacting a Laser Spine Institute consultation facility. Our orthopedic experts can tell you more about minimally invasive spine procedures, which are a safe and effective alternative to open spine surgery.