Nerve damage after micro laminotomy

[Lenore_74]

Hello, it's my first time on here, and I'm not sure if I will get any solutions, but it is nice to have such experienced people to talk with.  I had what was suppossed to be a microdiscectomy which turned out to be a micro laminotomy 3 months ago for right leg pain.  Upon waking up I immediately noticed that my right leg felt numb.  It was reported to my surgeon who stated "I'm not surprised, I had to move your nerve, there were adhesions (S1 adhered to the anulus)"  I was shocked when I tried to walk, I had significant right leg weakness.  I have followed up with the NP and surgeon, started therapy, and discovered I couldn't walk tippie toe, I have like a "foot drop".  It is now 3 months later, I have burning pain in my heel, butt pain, still limping, and of course my leg is no better.  I am physically and emotionally exhausted trying to work and take care of kids with a bum leg.  I requested a MRI with contrast, but I am worried, is this going to be my life forever???  Has anyone had back surgery and woke up with leg weakness and had it get better.  I am worse than I was before the surgery.

[Lenore_74]

Yep scheduled for the 29th.

[kittyluv1]

Hi ---
Neurontin is used to try and ease neuropathic pain symptoms.  It inhibits the central nervous system's perception of pain, but I don't think it would interfere with MRI results.
Specifically the MRI is looking for structural changes within the spine and intervertebral discs including the extent of nerve involvement,  The signal produced by the spinal cord and measured by the MRI would still be actively functioning unless severe spinal cord compression is noted.
Any success in getting the contrast MRI?

[Lenore_74]

Thank Kittyluv, it helps some, I was at a huge risk for fusion already because of the DDD above the herniated disc, so I will not be shocked if the MRI shows me some bad news.  I just hope my nerve heals up and I can start walking fast again.  Does anyone know if neurontin will give you false MRI readings?

[kittyluv1]

I am sorry to hear of your prolonged discomfort.  From your post it sounds as if you had planned for a microdiscectomy for a herniated disc at L5-S1.  When the surgery was in progress the surgeon needed to do a more extensive procedure and dissect adhesions connected to the annulus (the covering of the disc)  This extra manipulation and movement of nerve tissue could result in the symptoms you are currently experiencing.

The fact that you have seen minimal response after three months of conservative treatment would indicate the need for further evaluation.  This could include the MRI you requested.  If there were still portions of the disc that were not removed at the time of your initial surgery, it is possible that your symptoms are related to disc material which has now herniated.  I suggest this because if your doctor had removed the entire disc you would have needed fusion at this level.
A microlaminotomy deals with partial removal of the vertebra and the herniated disc.  This does increase the risk for recurrent symptoms due to additional disc problems.
You also have the option of seeking a second opinion, but hopefully the surgeon will see the need for a contrast MRI at this time.
Post with an update and any additional questions/concerns you may have.
Best wishes ---