The lower back or lumbar region is often the site of pain due to its high mobility and weight-bearing. Spongy discs present between the vertebral bones of the spine help cushion the spine during stress and movement. These intervertebral discs in the lumbar region may undergo damage due to stress causing them to herniate or rupture and compress adjacent spinal nerves. This can lead to lower back pain as well as pain, weakness, and numbness in the lower legs.
A lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat a herniated or ruptured disc and relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
To perform lumbar discectomy, Dr. Vengurlekar makes a small incision in your lower back over the affected spinal disc. Some vertebral bone and ligament may need to be removed to expose the disc. A microscope is used to visualize the disc and the adjacent spinal nerves. The spinal nerves are protected and the affected disc is completely removed. The surgical site is then irrigated with antibiotic solution and closed.
Following surgery, activities such as bending, lifting and sitting for prolonged periods should be avoided for four weeks. Dr. Vengurlekar will advise you about the exercises that will improve the strength and flexibility of the lower back. You may be able to return to work in 2-6 weeks depending on the level of activity involved.
Lumbar discectomy, as with any invasive surgery may be associated with certain complications such as nerve and spinal cord injury, infection and ongoing pain.
Dr. Sham Vengurlekar, also known as Dr. Vengurlekar by colleagues and patients, is leading the way with revolutionary techniques by implementing percutaneous decompression in the services of his practice for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. This is an alternative procedure that is minimally invasive and extremely cost effective. Going under general anesthesia to receive back surgery can be an extremely expensive endeavor, which is why percutaneous decompression by this top pain management doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona is an ideal option for patients looking for alternative treatment options.
