Benefits of Lumbar Discectomy

Studies suggest that almost everyone will encounter lower back pain or sciatica at some point in their life, which can impede their ability to complete work responsibilities or participate in recreational activities and sports. Potential causes of lower back pain include lumbar arthritis degenerative disc disease, muscular strain, and herniated or bulging discs. Lumbar discectomy is considered the preferred treatment for back pain or sciatica caused by a herniated or bulging disc.

The term “discectomy” means removal of the disc. This surgery can be performed on any part of the spine, such as the cervical (neck) or lumbar (lower back) regions. Various surgical tools and techniques can be used for the discectomy procedure. A minimally invasive or microendoscopic approach uses a small skin incision and a series of dilators to tunnel through the muscles, with special instruments to operate in a smaller space. The minimally invasive approach causes less disruption to the back muscles and is usually followed by a shorter recovery time.

What is Lumbar Discectomy?

A lumbar discectomy is a minimally invasive spinal outpatient procedure that’s done to remove the herniated portion of the lumbar disc. It provides rapid relief from back pain and other symptoms that can seriously interfere with your day-to-day life.

At one time, treatment of back conditions consisted of open surgery that often included cutting through muscle, frequently causing even more pain. Fortunately, new techniques have been developed to treat many back conditions using this minimally invasive approach.

And when you’re looking for an accomplished pain management specialist in New York City with a fellowship trained and highly experienced pain and musculoskeletal specialist, visit Dr. Ilana Etelzon. Dr. Etelzon focuses on providing treatment options that break the pain cycle. Her goal is to get your back to an active and pain free life as soon as possible.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Lumbar Discectomy?

Low back pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of conditions. It’s frequently triggered by a herniated disc, which is when a disc that serves as a cushion between two vertebrae bulges and presses on a nerve. If you have a herniation, you may experience symptoms such as:

Weakness
Low back pain
Tingling
Sciatica nerve pain, which is pain that radiates from your lower back across the buttocks and down the leg

A herniated disc is the most common reason for a lumbar discectomy but there are other conditions that may trigger both back and leg pain, including:

Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis
Radiculopathy

Before recommending this or any other surgical procedure, your NYC pain management doctor tries nonsurgical treatment methods such as activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and steroid injections. If your symptoms don’t decrease from a nonsurgical approach or if they worsen, you may be a good candidate for a lumber discectomy.

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What Methods Are Used for a Lumbar Discectomy?

Technological advances allow a lumbar discectomy to be performed as an outpatient procedure using a process called percutaneous discectomy. Your pain specialist performs this procedure by inserting one or more small tubes unto your back using advanced imaging technology to allow for disc decompression.

The procedure is performed using a local anesthetic rather than general anesthesia and typically take 30 to 45 minutes. For the first week or two after the procedure, you may need to avoid:

Sitting for long periods of time
Twisting
Bending
Lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds

Post-surgical pain should be minimal, and any discomfort you may experience is usually controlled with over-the-counter medication.

What Are Some Benefits of a Lumbar Discectomy?

A lumbar discectomy has a very high success rate for relieving lower back pain caused by compression of a nerve. Benefits of this procedure include:

Smaller incision and less blood loss than traditional open surgery
Pain relief almost immediately after the procedure
Minimal damage to surrounding tissues

Lumbar discectomy is a safe procedure that frees you from back and sciatica pain so you can return to a more active lifestyle. When you choose Dr. Ilana Etelzon, rest assured you’re in the hands of a highly experienced surgeon who works closely with patients to formulate a treatment plan that’s personal, practical and effective. Contact Dr. Etelzon today to schedule a consultation and get started toward better mobility and less pain today.

Patient Testimonials

Patient Doctor Relationships Based on Trust

Dr. Etelzon always makes sure you are comfortable and leave her office with less pain you came in. She gets to the root of the problem. She's friendly. Clean office environment. No long waits, efficient visit. Highly satisfied with my treatment plan.
Jacqueline Rodriguez Patient
Doctor Etelzon is very knowledgeable and really cares about her patients. She will take her time to discuss patients problem, answer questions and use her expertise to help. Dr. Etelzon maintains a friendly , clean , and efficient office environment.
Narik Fuzailov Patient
Helped me with my pain! Great bedside manner. Highly recommend this doctor.
Anonymous Patient
Dr.Etelzon is very knowledgeable and caring and has hands of hold! She was so thorough in her examination and really sees and hears the patient and determines a customized treatment. Thank you, Dr.Etelzon!
Anonymous Patient
Dr. Ilana Etelzon thank you for your help, you have golden hands. Very attentive and knowledgeable doctor. The office staff is friendly and kind, you girls are beautiful.
Valeriy Shek Patient (Google Review)
Dear Doctor Etelzon, Thank you again. I am starting to feel more like myself again...I couldn't say the problem is totally gone, but a big weight has been lifted...Today...I decided to go and do my nails which I did not do for a long time after the incident. I also asked my daughter if we could go to the park. These are things I normally enjoy but forgot about them for a few months now.
Anonymous Patient

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