Discectomy Specialist
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Next Generation Orthopedic & Spine Institute
Anthony Owusu, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon & Spine Surgeon located in San Antonio, TX & Spring, TX
When a herniated disc presses on your spinal cord, you may need a discectomy to diminish your pain. As a well-practiced spinal surgeon, Dr. Anthony Owusu employs minimally-invasive techniques to perform discectomies for easier recovery. Explore your herniated disc treatment options at Next Generation Orthopedic & Spine Institute. Call the Shavano Park, Texas practice or use the online booking option to take the first steps toward relief.
Discectomy Q & A
What is a discectomy?
Discs act as a cushion between each vertebra, but sometimes they slip out of place and put painful pressure on the spinal cord. After trying non-surgical therapies, Dr. Owusu may suggest surgery to relieve the pain from a herniated disc.
Discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove disc tissue and fragments to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord. During the operation, Dr. Owusu places you under general anesthesia so you don’t feel any pain.
Who needs a discectomy?
If your body doesn’t respond to conservative therapies for your herniated or bulging disc, Dr. Owusu may suggest surgery. First, he may try medication, physical therapy, exercise and other non-invasive methods.
If you still have chronic pain in the neck, back, or extremities as a result of a herniation, discectomy may provide the relief you need. If you have severe pain that medication can’t relieve, you have extreme mobility issues, or you have accompanying bladder and bowel problems, Dr. Owusu may perform surgery right away.
What happens during a discectomy surgery?
First, an anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia. Once you’re asleep, Dr. Owusu creates an incision in your lower back. He uses fluoroscopy to guide the minimally-invasive surgery and removes the sections of the disc that are compressing the nerves.
The surgery lasts one to two hours, after which you remain in the recovery room for another hour or so. Usually, you need to stay in the hospital for one day, and Dr. Owusu provides a brace, sets up your discharge instructions, and coordinates follow-up physical therapy.
What results can I expect from a discectomy?
Recovery is typically pretty short for a discectomy. The medical staff encourages you to get up and moving the same day as your surgery.
Dr. Owusu may place you under movement and lifting restrictions, but he helps you remain active by sending you home with a list of recommended exercises. You may even find that you can move better after surgery and that your pain, numbness, and tingling have disappeared.
If you’re looking for a surgeon to perform your discectomy in Shavano Park, Texas, contact Dr. Owusu online or over the phone.
