Sciatica Surgery

Overview

This is the recommended treatment for patients with chronic sciatic pain, often defined as pain from the back down to the lower leg of the sciatic nerve. This pain is usually a result of the pressure placed on the sciatic nerve that is brought about by herniated disc, spinal stenosis as well as bone spurs. Dr. Irfan Malik at Mspine helps the patient to get rid of this problem and helps them to be relieved from pain permanently.

Key Benefits of Sciatica Surgery

• Relief from Persistent Pain
• Improved Mobility
• Improved Quality of Life
• Reduce Pressure on Pain

Conditions Treated by Sciatica Surgery

Sciatica surgery is performed to treat a range of spinal problems that may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. It is effective for:

• Herniated Disc: When the soft center comes out in a crack somebody pushes the sciatic nerve.
• Spinal Stenosis: Slight or gradual constriction of the spinal canal which is most frequently caused by aging and results in nerve pressure.
• Bone Spurs or Other Growths: It is at the spine that these can develop hence causing nerve irritation.

Treatment Process

The sciatica surgery process includes several stages: They identified three phases (pre-procedure, procedure, and Treatment Process).

Pre-Procedure

Before surgery, patients undergo extensive evaluation to determine the best course of action. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, help pinpoint the exact location and cause of nerve compression. If the surgery is deemed necessary, patients can be instructed on how to prepare for the procedure. This preparation allows for medication adjustments, management of underlying health issues, and stopping smoking if necessary. Patients also receive guidance on what to expect during recovery, including possible physical therapy.

The Procedure

The type of surgery that will be done depends on the type of sciatica that has been diagnosed. The most common methods include:

• Microdiscectomy: This MIS (minimal Invasive Surgery) surgery involves the removal of a damaged part of a herniated disc that is pinching the sciatic nerve. The procedure involves making a small cut on the patient and the surgeon uses a microscope to conduct the process, keeping as much of the healthy disc as possible.
• Laminectomy: For the lumbar spine stenosis cases, a laminectomy is employed. This process involves the removal of part of the vertebral bone known as the lamina. This is done to make space and take pressure off the nerve.
• Foraminotomy: If there is pressure on the nerves narrowing in the openings (foramina) where nerves exit from the vertebral column, a foraminotomy operates by expanding these openings.

It normally takes a few hours and is conducted under the use of some form of anesthesia. Minimally invasive procedures like microdiscectomy involve the use of small incisions that help heal much faster and result in much smaller scars.

Post-Procedure

Usually after surgery of particular procedures, the patient is closely observed and can be discharged on the same day. The recovery time again is different for different patients but may involve pain control and early mobilization exercises. Exercise may be added to help build up the muscles of the back. Patients should avoid provoking their conditions by performing rigorous exercises or lifting heavy objects for some weeks. Follow-up appointments show track progress ensuring the surgery’s success and a smooth return to normal activities.