Sciatica, Leg Pain, Radiculopathy
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Thu, 11/05/2009 - 05:45
Herniated Discs L5 -S1
What is considered the "gold" standard for surgical repair of the disc?
Which specialty is preferred; orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon?
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"The gold standard for surgery is an open or microsurgical discectomy." This is quoted from the following article from this website:
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/herniated-disc/surgical-treatment...
Depending on the specifics, some people are recommending artificial disc replacement.
And regarding your other questions about which specialty, there is a lengthy thread on the forum:
http://www.spine-health.com/forum/back-surgery-and-neck-surgery/which-ty...
Just be sure you find a fellowship-trained spinal specialist. This can be either an orthopedic spinal surgeon or a neurosurgeon who devotes his/her practice to issues of the back and neck. Be sure you do not select an orthopedic generalist -- you do not want one who replaces joints or repairs broken bones.
When contemplating surgery, it is always a good idea to get several opinions. I think it makes sense to see a neurosurgeon as well as an orthopedic spinal surgeon to see if different procedures are recommended.
spondylolisthesis at L4-5; stenosis at L3-4 and L4-5
radiculopathy for about 3 years
PLIF (L4-L5)in Jan '08 (PEEK cage, rods & Screws, BMP); continued radiculopathy....
Lami-foraminotomy L5-S1 Jan '09; continued radiculopathy;
Bulging discs L3-4 & L5-S1; crazy screwed-up S1 nerve
***** I have no medical training and am in no way connected with the medical profession, other than doing my part to keep them at full employment. My posts are based on personal experience and knowledge gained through the adventures of living. Take them for what they are worth....