“Herniated Disc Compressing the Nerve” in many cases cannot be treated with medication and physical therapy. Patients who need surgery often feel anxious about the treatment outcome and the pain that sounds frightening.
However, with the significant advancements in medical technology today, a new surgical method called “Minimally Invasive Surgery” has been developed. This method not only provides good effectiveness and reduces the disadvantages of traditional surgery but also reassures patients… making them feel less fearful than before!
Check Symptoms… Herniated Disc Compressing the Nerve
The pain or numbness caused by nerve compression from a herniated disc can be divided into 2 locations:
- Cervical herniated disc compressing the nerve, causing pain in the neck radiating to the shoulder, arm, and hand, with numbness and weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects, and
- Lumbar herniated disc compressing the nerve, causing back pain and hip pain radiating down the leg, with numbness and weakness in the leg, making walking difficult.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Herniated Disc Compressing the Nerve
For Minimally Invasive Surgery or small incision surgery, the doctor will administer general anesthesia or spinal block, clean the skin, then make a small incision about 2-3 cm on the back or neck, depending on the surgical site. Then, a small tube is inserted through the incision along with various instruments. The key equipment for small incision surgery is the “Microscope” with high magnification, which helps the doctor clearly see the internal organ details. There is also a “Navigator” device that assists in calculating the coordinates of the spine, making the surgery precise, convenient, and accurate.
What are the advantages of small incision surgery?
Small incision surgery involves making an incision only 2-3 cm in size, resulting in less blood loss during surgery and minimal impact on nearby muscles or organs. Muscle injury in the back or neck area is therefore reduced, allowing patients to recover faster than with traditional long incision surgery.
How to prepare before surgery?
- Prepare blood test results and X-rays; therefore, patients must come to the hospital on the date and time scheduled by the doctor.
- If you have a history of food or drug allergies, inform the doctor.
- If you have other underlying diseases and take regular medication, inform the doctor, such as blood thinners that must be stopped at least 7 days before surgery.
- Get plenty of rest and sleep.
- Fast from food and water for at least 6-8 hours before surgery.
- Sign the surgical consent form.
Self-care after surgery!
- While in the hospital, during the first days after surgery, patients should not touch the wound and must be careful not to get the wound wet. If there is pain, burning sensation in the leg, or bleeding from the wound, notify the doctor immediately.
- When returning home, even though the surgical wound starts to heal, patients must still avoid getting the wound wet and must not use soap or apply cream on the surgical wound area. Avoid sleeping with a high pillow.
- During the first 3 months after surgery, change positions slowly and carefully, focus on eating calcium-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and take medication continuously as prescribed by the doctor.
- If the surgical wound becomes swollen, red, or has bleeding or pus discharge, seek medical attention immediately.
Dr. Teerachai Phanitpong
Neurosurgeon and Spine Surgeon
Brain and Spine Center
Phyathai 3 Hospital
