Minimally Invasive Spinal Disc Surgery

Modern medicine has advanced significantly, yet the causes of chronic back pain remain only partially understood. Often, chronic back pain is linked to spinal disc conditions, with one common cause being degenerative disc disease, or osteochondrosis. The vertebrae are separated by cartilaginous spaces and intervertebral discs, which are durable yet flexible, allowing the spine to bend. When pathology occurs, movement becomes restricted and painful, hindering daily activities and potentially resulting in disability.

Typically, only about 10% of patients who consult a neurosurgeon are recommended for spinal disc surgery. Surgery is considered only after conservative treatments—such as physical therapy, pain management, or weight regulation (in cases where spinal pain is linked to excess weight)—have proven ineffective. A CT scan is also crucial, as it allows the neurosurgeon to accurately assess the condition of the spine. A patient arriving at a neurosurgeon's office without a CT scan may only expect a superficial examination.

Key Symptoms Indicating Surgery Might Be Necessary

Each patient’s symptoms vary widely, depending on the location of the herniated disc and individual pain response. For instance, a herniated disc in the lumbar spine can cause pain radiating from the lower back down one or both legs and, sometimes, into the feet. Patients may describe this pain as similar to an electric shock when standing, walking, or sitting. Movements such as bending, lifting, twisting, and prolonged sitting can intensify the pain, while lying down with knees bent may relieve pressure on the disc.

Symptoms can also include numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, cramps or muscle spasms in the back or legs, and muscle weakness. Severe cases may involve weakness in the feet (causing stumbling) or loss of bladder or bowel control. If such symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.

What Is Minimally Invasive Surgery?

Minimally invasive spinal surgery treats damaged intervertebral discs using a targeted needle in the affected disc area under x-ray guidance in the operating room. This is commonly performed on the lumbar or cervical spine. Through this needle, an electrode is introduced to conduct radiofrequency ablation, which reduces the internal pressure of the disc. This process causes the bulging disc to retract, relieving nerve root compression and alleviating pain.

Minimally invasive surgery falls under outpatient surgery. The procedure, which uses general or spinal anesthesia, takes about an hour. Most patients can stand and walk within a few hours post-surgery.

After this surgery, the patient can get up and start walking within 2–3 hours. Depending on the height and location of the operation—whether it is in the lumbar or cervical region—a corresponding regimen is prescribed: protective, highly protective, or minimally protective. Typically, the patient is able to walk on the same day, and after cervical spine surgery, sitting is allowed immediately. After surgery in the lumbar region, sitting, prolonged sitting in a car, bending, and straining the back muscles should be limited for several days

Who Can Undergo Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery?

This type of surgery has a limited application and is suited for specific patient groups. Factors such as body type, age, disease duration, and other health conditions are considered. Candidates for this minimally invasive procedure typically experience back or shoulder pain rather than nerve root pain.

Safety Measures for Minimally Invasive Surgery

Ensuring safety during minimally invasive spinal surgery involves performing the operation under x-ray guidance, allowing the surgeon to position the needle precisely.

Electrical stimulation is used to ensure there is no nerve or spinal cord contact, providing a double layer of safety.

Possible Complications

As with any medical treatment, complications are rare but possible. These can include inflammation, swelling, or infection, which are treated with antibiotics, or nerve damage, which can be avoided by careful monitoring and an experienced surgeon.

Post-Operative Care

Patients may go home the same or the next day. They should avoid strenuous activities and adhere to other post-operative instructions. Recovery can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on the physical demands of their work or lifestyle.

Key factors for successful recovery include:

• Practicing proper posture while sitting, standing, and walking.
• Following a physiotherapist-recommended exercise program.
• Lifting weights with caution, ensuring the load is manageable.
• Avoiding harmful habits, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet for overall wellness and improved productivity.
• Promptly responding to initial signs of discomfort, even mild pain, can prevent complications. Consult specialists rather than attempting self-treatment, which can harm your health.

 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described, contact Clinic AGATAS for an initial consultation. Our specialists are ready to assist you.