Herinated discx surgery...DESPERATE help needed please.

Hi all.

I've had a n MRI scan on my back, and according to the people that did my MRI scan, it s a quote, "massive" herniated disc at L5 S1.

I've seen the Neurosurgeon and he says that my only option is surgery.

I'm struggling bigtime, as I have to raise

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

Without reviewing the films I cannot be certain what your doctor is referring to. If the disc was herniated, but not fragmented off, it may decrease in size over time. If this occurs, symptoms may decrease or disappear. This is why the majority of disc herniations due not require surgery, but physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. If the disc decreased in size, and you are symptom free, then the concern for the future is to have a new disc herniation at the same level. Surgery is designed to prevent future serious injury to the spine, and to hopefully reverse symptoms. However, even with surgery there is a risk of re-rupture at that level. You may want to seek the opinion of a local neurologist who can review your case and films. Good luck.

[reva]

Hi Matt!

Read your post, sorry about your problems.  I, too, have the L5 S1 area pain.  I have a herniated disc, with a severely irritated nerve.  In addition, I have three more bulging discs just above the herniated one and degenerative arthritis.

I have had back problems for years.  Not exactly sure when my disc became herniated, but it was last October when my pain became so severe that I could not maintain my daily lifestyle anymore.  I deal with severe pain daily, have a daily regimen of meds, including percocet daily.

If you have an opportunity to have a neurosurgeon fix this problem, I am no doctor, but I would sure give it alot of consideration.  I have done all the following for the same problem, and I am no better nine months later.  X-Rays, MRI-lower lumbar, steriod therapy, 11 spinal injections over a 3 session period, electro nerve conduction and needle electromyography, diskogram, and disc decompression.  My next step is to see a neurologist.

No two cases are exactly alike, we all have different outcomes.  You cannot base your decision based on me, or any other person.  I do encourage you to research the type of surgery your doctor wants to perform.  Check out the all the whats and whys.  There are alot of great websites with lots of info.  Research your doctor's background if you have any questions.  A good doctor will respect you checking everything out.  Afterall - its your back!

Good luck, I wish you well, and I hope everything works out for you.  Please let me know how your situation turns out.