If you are able to relate upon the suffering of back pain, then you may also know that it would really help if you opt for a back surgery because such condition affects mobility and interferes with your activities of daily living.
First, if you seek help, orthopaedic surgeon would look over your condition and may use Magnetic Resonance Imaging or CT scans to check the exact nature of the problem.
This would know the source of the condition you are in as x-ray images are good at showing problems with the bone.
Prior to operation, there are lists of stuff your surgeon will asks to prepare for your operation, as there is a need for a cessation of smoking because this increases risk of getting wound infection and slows the progress of recovery.
You will be put under general anesthesia, and in this case, you are instructed to abhor drinking and eating six hours before the operation, but in other cases, occasional sips of water two hours beforehand may be allowed.
Obtaining the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient, and also the urine is gone under a test is needed prior the procedure.
Then, the patient is asked to sign a consent form as this confirms that the patient understands the risks, benefits and other alternatives the he/she may undergo if give permission to go ahead.
As the operation is observed, surgeon will brief you about small details and know-how about the procedure.
You may undergo in these kind of different operation, depending on the severity and condition of your case: 1.
Disectomy-removal of the soft centre of the disk away from the spinal cord that is damaged or may be protruding.
2.
Laminectomy-the goal is to widen the entire space canal through which spinal nerves pass by removal of the bony coverings or lamina.
3.
Foraminotomy-removal of lamina and facet joints in order to widen the gap in the side of the spine, where the nerves pass.
4.
Stabilisation surgery-a major operation in which the lamina is cut away and the spine is fuse back together by screws fixed into the spine under the guidance of x-ray.
Metal implants or plates, or alternatively, bone from your hip is used to hold the spine together.
Full recovery is observed within span of months.
After the said operation, as anesthetic wears off, patient is put under course of pain relief through analgesics to manage discomfort.
Also, because there is a susceptible loss of control in urination, patient is confined to catheterize, but this can be removed a day or two.
You are spared from vigorous activities, as complete bed rest is concerned, and instructed to wear corset to support your back, and as for neck, soft collar is given.
You are subject to the guidance of physiotherapist, for the recovery and the nurse will give advices regarding caring for your self about hygiene and bathing before you go home.
Recommendations upon going home are, during first six weeks, you must avoid to bend, twist or stretch your back or do any lifting.
Follow the advice given by your surgeon regarding driving.
You may go back to work after six to eight weeks, but if your work involves a lot of standing or lifting, then you are advised otherwise.