herniated cervical disks

    
      Re: herniated cervical disks
    


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum ] [ FAQ ]



Posted by CCF Neurosurgery MD on November 05, 1997 at 11:04:35:

In Reply to: herniated cervical disks posted by Pat Nelson on October 28, 1997 at 14:43:39:

: One year ago, I herniated two cervical disks. I presently experience frequent upper back, left arm and hand pain and numbness.
  In researching the success rate of surgery, I noted that some studies show an unremarkable difference after 4? years between surgery patients and non-surgery patients.  Specifically, if a person does little or nothing for their herniated disks, what are the short- and long-term prognoses possible?
  Also, is the Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression better, worse or just a different option for certain herniated conditions?  Isn't the surgical success rate more like 70%, rather than 90%?  Thank you for any information you can provide.
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Dear Pat,
Your point is salient with regard to cervical disc disease.  Cervical, as
well as lumbar discs, are composed primarily of water.  In the acute setting
it is common to observe a herniated disc as long as it is not causing serious
neurological deficits.  The water from the disc will resorb over time and
the pain and numbness will often resolve.  After a period of conservative
therapy including physical therapy, antiinflammatory medication and occasionally
traction, the surgeon and patient may decide that surgery is warranted.
When arm pain or weakness becomes debilitating in the case of cervical
disc disease, surgery is often considered.  The tradeoff becomes living
with the pain versus the lost productivity at work and compromise in lifestyle.  
Often patients will state "I can't deal with the pain any longer, Doc".
The rate of successful fusion for a one level cervical disc is approximately
90%, depending on the surgeon.  Successful surgery in terms of pain and
functional outcome approaches the same numbers.  The patient must note,
however, that pain will be the first to recover, followed by weakness and
lastly numbness.  Numbness may take a few months to recover.
We do not perform the percutaneous laser disc procedure at the Cleveland
Clinic.  It would be better to ask a surgeon that performs the procedure
as to his or her particular success rates.
Good luck.