What is the difference between a discectomy and a fusion?
While a lumbar spinal fusion can stabilize the spine and reduce pain from a herniated disc, lumbar discectomy is the most common surgical approach because it’s less invasive than a fusion, preserves movement, has a shorter recovery period, and is associated with fewer complications.
How long does a discectomy and fusion take?
ACDF surgery can usually be done in 1 to 2 hours, but may take up to 3 or more hours. The time depends on how many discs will be removed, how badly the discs or vertebrae [VUR-tuh-brey] are diseased, and other factors.
How serious is a anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?
Although ACDF is considered a safe procedure and its complications are relatively rare and manageable, some complications may be serious and could last for several weeks to months.
How long does it take to recover from cervical spinal fusion surgery?
It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get back to your usual activities. How long it takes depends on what kind of surgery you had. Your doctor may advise you to work with a physiotherapist to strengthen the muscles around your neck and back.
Is discectomy major surgery?
Discectomy is a common but major surgery with significant risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options. Consider getting a second opinion about all your treatment choices before having a discectomy.
Do you need a fusion after a discectomy?
The herniated disc material compressing the nerve root is removed. For a single-level lumbar discectomy, fusion is rarely performed. However, other conditions, such as recurrent disc herniation or spinal instability, may be treated with a fusion.
Can you have a discectomy without a fusion?
Anterior cervical discectomy without fusion is a safe and effective treatment for cervical disk herniation.
How long does discectomy surgery last?
It may take about 1 hour. Here is an example of what you might expect: You will receive a local anesthetic so that you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Can you move your neck after cervical fusion?
This may make you wonder, can you move your neck after a cervical fusion? Of course. There are several vertebrae and joints in your neck allowing it to move. Most often a fusion will only affect one joint.
Is cervical fusion major surgery?
A single-level cervical fusion involves two adjacent vertebrae in the cervical spine being fused together. While it is a relatively safe and routine procedure, it is still major surgery.
How serious is neck fusion surgery?
While uncommon, as with all surgery there are a number of risks and potential complications that can occur as a result of a cervical decompression and fusion surgery, including: Hemorrhage or formation of a wound hematoma. Damage to the carotid or vertebral artery resulting in a stroke or excessive bleeding, even death.
How long is hospital stay after discectomy?
Most lumbar microdiscectomy patients are able to go home from the hospital a few hours after the surgery. The traditional approach to recovering from lumbar microdiscectomy has been to limit bending, lifting, or twisting for a minimum of 6 weeks in order to prevent the disc from herniating again.