The Anticipation of Lumbar Discectomy Surgery

By Lena Trondson • December 10, 2008

Lumbar discectomy surgery actually sounds much better than you might think for us at the moment. A date has finally been set for Brian’s upcoming back surgery – long time overdue if you ask my opinion. It is so severe at the moment that he is experiencing nerve damage and major loss of back and leg function. I can’t even start telling you about the long battle with Brian’s disabled back (one of many conditions) but it has been a major cause of pain and discomfort. Brian even have problems carrying and lifting up his own daughter and it has taken a toll on us as a family and we are so happy that the surgery has been approved and scheduled a few days before Christmas.

Lumbar discectomy surgery (also called open discectomy) is the surgical removal of herniated disc material that presses on a nerve root or/and the spinal cord. Before the disc material is removed, a small piece of bone (the lamina) from the affected vertebra may be removed.Right now, the disc is putting pressure on his spine and nerves and causing great pain. I can’t even recall a day since I met Brian that he has been free of pain unless using heavy pain management such as pain medication. It is amazing how back pain can infiltrate every aspect of your life and disable you as a person.

Although the surgery will alleviate some pain, it doesn’t mean that Brian will be “cured” or recovered fully. According to the neurosurgeon, it’s likely that the disc above the damaged disc will get damaged in the future and he might have to have a surgery that requires a fusion of his discs. Considering Brians young age, the doctor is trying to take a minimal route to heal the damage. Most likely he will be required to have surgery again in a few years. At least this surgery will bring some well-deserved relief. Wish him luck and keep your fingers crossed!