After a microdiscectomy, there are several common problems that patients may experience during their recovery. These can include pain, infection, nerve damage, and re-herniation of the intervertebral disc.
One of the most common problems after microdiscectomy is pain. Although the surgery is performed to alleviate pain caused by a herniated disc, it is not uncommon for patients to experience some degree of post-operative pain. This pain is typically localized to the surgical site and may be present for several weeks or even months after the procedure. However, the severity of the pain tends to decrease over time as the body heals.
Infection is another potential problem after microdiscectomy. While steps are taken to minimize the risk of infection during surgery, it is still possible for bacteria to enter the surgical site and cause an infection. Symptoms of infection can include increased pain, redness, swelling, and drainage from the incision site. In severe cases, fever and chills may also be present. If an infection is suspected, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Nerve damage is a potential complication of microdiscectomy, although it is relatively rare. During the surgery, there is a small risk of unintentional damage to the nerves surrounding the surgical site. This can result in symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or tingling in the affected area. In most cases, any nerve damage that occurs during the surgery is temporary and will resolve over time as the nerves heal.
Re-herniation of the intervertebral disc is a concern after microdiscectomy. Although the surgery is performed to remove the herniated portion of the disc, there is a risk that the disc may herniate again in the future. The risk of re-herniation is highest during the first three months after the surgery. During this time, the disc is still healing and may be more prone to injury. It is important for patients to avoid excessive turning movements or lifting heavy weights during this initial recovery period to minimize the risk of re-herniation.
Common problems after microdiscectomy include pain, infection, nerve damage, and re-herniation of the intervertebral disc. While these complications are possible, they are generally rare and most patients experience a successful recovery from the surgery. It is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care and to report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.