Spine Surgery for Disc Prolapse

• Annulus fibrosis: A tough outer layer surrounding the nucleus pulposus.
• Nucleus pulposus: the inner gel-like area of the disc rendering strength and flexibility to the spine.
• Cartilaginous end plates: Pieces of cartilage that are found between the intervertebral discs and the connecting vertebrae.

A herniated disc or disc prolapse

Also called disc prolapse, a herniated disc is a condition that occurs when the annulus fibrosis is ruptured or torn. The damage leads to a section of the nucleus pulposus pushing through and moving into the spinal cord. At times, the herniated material can put pressure on a nerve, affecting the movement and causing pain.

The problem of disc prolapse r herniated disc can be seen anywhere in your spine, most commonly cervical spine and lumbar spine. The cervical spine is the neck region, while the lumbar spine is the area of the lower back.

Most orthopedists recommend spine surgery for disc prolapse/herniated disc.

Diagnosis of disc prolapse

• X-Rays
• CT-Scan
• MRI
• EMG/NCS

Types of spine surgery for disc prolapse

The orthopedic surgeon will create a small incision in your neck or back to access the disc. As required, the surgeon will make smaller incisions and use special instruments to achieve access to the disc. It is a modern and less-invasive method of treating a herniated disc.

Laminectomy or Laminotomy
In this surgical procedure, the orthopedist will make an opening in the lamina or vertebral arch to take off pressure from the nerve roots. The method is carried out through a small incision with help of a microscope. When needed, the lamina is removed as well – laminectomy.

Artificial disc surgery
This one is generally used to treat a single disc – when the issue is in the lower back region. However, if you have osteoarthritis or arthritis, your surgeon may not go with artificial disc surgery. It is also not a suitable treatment option when multiple discs show degeneration.

In the process, your surgeon will reach the affected area of your spine through an incision in the abdomen. The torn or ruptured disc is replaced by an artificial metal or plastic disc. The surgery is performed keeping you in an unconscious state with help of general anesthesia.

Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is a process where multiple vertebrae are fused permanently. It can be done using bone grafts from a donor or another part of your body. Based on the conditions, your surgeon may also use plastic or metal rods and screws for additional support. Through spinal fusion, the affected portion of the spine will be immobilized permanently.

After the spine surgery
After the surgery, you need to be careful about:

• lifting heavy weight
• sitting for a prolonged period
• stretching or bending too often

Your surgeon will advise you to take the rehabilitation program and indulge in physical therapy for a faster and smoother recovery.

You must wait for your orthopedist to inform you when you can go back to work, drive, and get back to your regular lifestyle. Generally, the period for getting back to your work desk is around 2-4 weeks from the day of discharge from the hospital.

Risks and complications
Spine surgery for a disc relapse/herniated disc is usually safe, but you may encounter some side-effects like:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood vessels or nerve damage
• Issue with the artificial disc
• Leakage of spinal cord fluid

Discuss your spine problems with Dr Reddy and his team for availing the best diagnosis, treatment and care.