Understanding Discectomy: What to Expect During the Procedure

 

Living with back pain can be very frustrating and can affect your quality of life. It can be caused by different reasons, and one of them is a herniated disc. When conservative treatments fail to alleviate the pain, your doctor may recommend surgery. One common procedure used to treat herniated discs is a discectomy. In this blog post, we will talk about what to expect during the procedure.

 

A discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that aims to remove a part of the damaged disc in the spine that is causing the pain. It is usually performed on the lumbar spine or lower back, where the discs are more prone to herniation. The surgery is done under general anesthesia, and you will have to stay in the hospital for a day or two to recover.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in your back and use specialized tools to remove the damaged tissue. The procedure usually takes around one hour to perform. After the surgery, you will be monitored closely for any complications.

Once you’re conscious and alert, you will be allowed to walk and move around. However, you may feel some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy to help you regain your strength and mobility.

After the surgery, it’s important to take care of your back and follow your doctor’s orders to prevent any complications. You may need to avoid lifting heavy objects and strenuous activities for a few weeks. You should also make sure to get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and stay hydrated to promote healing.

 

Conclusion

A discectomy is an effective treatment for herniated disc and can help alleviate your back pain. If you’re considering the procedure, make sure to talk to your doctor and ask any questions you may have. It’s important to be well-informed and understand what to expect during and after the surgery. At the Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute, we have a team of experienced orthopedic surgeons in Lake Mary, FL who can help you. Contact us today to learn more about our services.