Thread: Anyone have a discectomy?

So . . . . in about a month I am having a discectomy. There is a large portion of one of my discs sitting in my spinal canal causing all sorts of pain. Have tired pt and injections and had no help.

It is going to be done by one of the best neurosurgeons in the area . . . .

I am wondering . . .

Has anyone had success / pain relief with this operation. Tell me your success stories please.

How long was the recovery time. I'm a school teacher, so I'm one my feet ALL DAY LONG. How long after the operation should I have to take off so I can rest?

I know these are q's for the surgeon, but he is in such high demand that I won't be seen by him for a month.

I have no info, but I wish you well. Back pain stinks.

My dad had something similar in the late 1970s and found it was one of the best things he's ever done for himself.

There are several different methods for a discectomy (which might or might not include a fusion) and the recovery time varies. If I remember correctly, you might be looking at upwards of 8 weeks [a few at bed rest + walking and more at limited-but-increasing mobility] before returning to work. If things haven't changed too much in 30 years, you'll be limited in the amount of time you spend sitting, but will probably be encouraged to walk alot.

That's what I remember from my dad's surgery. He, literally, was a new man following his procedure -- pain free and mobile!

Deborah

I haven't had it but many, many people have success. Give yourself a long time to heal because that is not minor surgery, and by doing so you will probably be better than ever. On the other hand, if you don't follow proper procedure you will only prolong getting better. Good luck!!

My dad also had this surgery about 20 - 25 years ago. His recovery time was about 4 months or so. A friend of mine had a fusion done about a year and a half ago. Her surgeon told her to follow his directions to the letter or she would prolong her recovery. Well, he was right! She did too much too soon and added about 8-12 weeks to her total recovery time. That being said, both my dad and my friend are thrilled with the results! The lesson is to do EXACTLY what your surgeon tells you. Since you are on your feet all day, you need to recover as quickly as possible. Good luck to you!

There is a place in Fl that is doing laser surgery on disks. I don't know much else about it other than it is much less invasive and that there is no fusion involved, but if I were considering this type of surgery, I would look into it.