{"id":15549,"date":"2026-05-21T09:10:55","date_gmt":"2026-05-21T06:10:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/?p=15549"},"modified":"2026-10-13T19:26:12","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T16:26:12","slug":"what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/","title":{"rendered":"Herniated Disc Surgery: Procedure, Types, Risks and Recovery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Lumbar disc herniation surgery is the process of physically removing the herniated tissue that presses on the nerves as a result of tearing in the spinal discs, using microsurgery or endoscopic systems. This operation is usually performed by entering through a small incision opened in the lower back area and cleaning the damaged fragments compressing the nerve under anesthesia. Today, in the solution of this mechanical problem that causes severe lower back and leg pain, non-surgical lumbar disc herniation treatment options come to the forefront as a strong alternative to traditional open surgery. Interventional radiology methods applied under the guidance of advanced radiological imaging devices provide the opportunity to intervene directly in the problematic area with needles without requiring a tissue incision or narcosis, ensuring a fast, scarless and comfortable recovery process.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_the_Structure_of_Our_Spine_Like_and_How_Does_It_Affect_the_Development_of_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\" >What Is the Structure of Our Spine Like and How Does It Affect the Development of Lumbar Disc Herniation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_With_Which_Symptoms_Does_It_Appear\" >What Is Lumbar Disc Herniation and With Which Symptoms Does It Appear?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#In_Which_Cases_Is_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_Absolutely_Necessary\" >In Which Cases Is Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery Absolutely Necessary?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Are_the_Traditional_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_Methods_and_How_Are_They_Performed\" >What Are the Traditional Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery Methods and How Are They Performed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Are_the_Risks_After_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_and_What_Is_Failed_Back_Surgery_Syndrome\" >What Are the Risks After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery and What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Should_Be_Considered_During_the_Recovery_Process_After_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery\" >What Should Be Considered During the Recovery Process After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_Interventional_Radiology_in_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Treatment_and_How_Are_Non-Surgical_Solutions_Applied\" >What Is Interventional Radiology in Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment and How Are Non-Surgical Solutions Applied?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Are_the_Advantages_of_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Treatment_with_Interventional_Radiology_Compared_to_Surgery\" >What Are the Advantages of Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment with Interventional Radiology Compared to Surgery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_a_Pinpoint_Injection_Epidural_Steroid_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_What_Is_Its_Effect\" >What Is a Pinpoint Injection (Epidural Steroid) for Lumbar Disc Herniation and What Is Its Effect?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#How_Are_Ozone_Therapy_and_the_Nucleoplasty_Procedure_Performed_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\" >How Are Ozone Therapy and the Nucleoplasty Procedure Performed for Lumbar Disc Herniation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_Laser_PLDD_Treatment_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_How_Does_It_Provide_Recovery\" >What Is Laser (PLDD) Treatment for Lumbar Disc Herniation and How Does It Provide Recovery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#What_Is_the_Radiofrequency_Method_in_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Pain_and_What_Is_It_Used_For\" >What Is the Radiofrequency Method in Lumbar Disc Herniation Pain and What Is It Used For?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#When_Are_Discogel_and_Epiduroscopy_Applications_Preferred_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\" >When Are Discogel and Epiduroscopy Applications Preferred for Lumbar Disc Herniation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-herniated-disc-surgery-how-is-it-performed\/#Why_Should_Interventional_Radiology_Be_Evaluated_Before_the_Decision_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery\" >Why Should Interventional Radiology Be Evaluated Before the Decision for Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Structure_of_Our_Spine_Like_and_How_Does_It_Affect_the_Development_of_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\"><\/span>What Is the Structure of Our Spine Like and How Does It Affect the Development of Lumbar Disc Herniation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>We call the structure that keeps the human body upright, enables us to move, and protects the spinal cord, which is the main highway of our nervous system, the spine. You can think of our spine as a strong column made up of bones stacked one on top of another. Especially our lower back region (lumbar region) is the most mobile part that carries the entire load of our body, enables movements such as bending, straightening and turning, and is exposed to the most pressure. To prevent these bones from rubbing against each other, to make our movements flexible, and to absorb the shocks that occur while walking, running or lifting an object, there are special cartilage cushions between each two bones that we call &#8220;intervertebral discs&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>The structure of these discs has quite flawless engineering. Comparing the disc to a filled pastry is a great way to understand its structure. On the outer part, there is a hard wall consisting of very durable fibers that prevents the material inside from overflowing outward. Right in the middle of this wall, there is a flexible core with a jelly-like consistency, containing a high amount of water and responsible for absorbing loads. In a healthy person, these discs have a durability that can resist even tons of weight. However, over time, various environmental and physical factors prepare the ground for the deterioration of this flawless structure.<\/p>\n<p>The main factors that weaken the disc structure are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Aging process<\/li>\n<li>Excess weight<\/li>\n<li>Sedentary lifestyle<\/li>\n<li>Smoking<\/li>\n<li>Heavy lifting<\/li>\n<li>Genetic factors<\/li>\n<li>Posture disorders<\/li>\n<li>Weak muscles<\/li>\n<li>Occupational strains<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_With_Which_Symptoms_Does_It_Appear\"><\/span>What Is Lumbar Disc Herniation and With Which Symptoms Does It Appear?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With the effect of the negative factors we listed above, that strong and protective fiber layer surrounding the outside of the disc loses its elasticity over time, weakens and small cracks begin to form on it. Especially if the deep lower back and abdominal muscles are not strong enough, the balance of the spine is disrupted and the load that should normally be carried by the muscles is placed directly on these weakened discs. When a wrong movement is made, a heavy object is lifted incorrectly or one sits in an incorrect position for a long time, these weakened fibers on the outside of the disc tear.<\/p>\n<p>At exactly this point, the flexible jelly-like substance inside leaks through these tears outward, that is, toward the spinal canal and the area where the nerves going to our legs are located. We generally call the condition in which this protruding tissue compresses, crushes and physically presses on the nerves lumbar disc herniation. However, the problem is not only a mechanical crushing. The structure of this jelly-like substance that leaks outward is chemically acidic. When it comes into contact with nerve tissue, it causes very severe inflammation, deterioration of microscopic blood circulation and serious edema around the nerve. This chemical irritation initiates the famous sciatic pain that the patient describes as an electric shock or burning sensation starting from the lower back, going to the hip and then down to the heel.<\/p>\n<p>The most common symptoms of lumbar disc herniation are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Severe lower back pain<\/li>\n<li>Pain radiating to the hip<\/li>\n<li>Aching spreading to the leg<\/li>\n<li>Numbness in the feet<\/li>\n<li>Tingling sensation<\/li>\n<li>Muscle weakness<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty walking<\/li>\n<li>Restricted movement<\/li>\n<li>Urinary incontinence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Which_Cases_Is_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_Absolutely_Necessary\"><\/span>In Which Cases Is Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery Absolutely Necessary?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A large majority of people diagnosed with a hernia in society may fall into the misconception that they immediately need to lie on the operating table. However, according to statistics and medical data, a very large portion of lumbar disc herniation cases can recover with non-surgical methods such as rest, correct medication use, physical therapy and specific exercises that strengthen the lower back muscles. Surgery becomes truly mandatory in only a few out of every hundred patients.<\/p>\n<p>So, when is surgical intervention inevitable? If the patient cannot get rid of unbearable pain that radiates to the leg, prevents sleep and reduces quality of life to zero for weeks despite all applied physical therapy and medication regimens, the surgical option comes to the table. However, more importantly, there are some danger signs showing that the pressure on the nerve has now begun to create permanent damage. When the nerve begins to lose its functions, weaknesses that are difficult to reverse appear in the leg muscles.<\/p>\n<p>Urgent and dangerous conditions requiring surgery are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Progressive loss of strength<\/li>\n<li>Development of foot drop<\/li>\n<li>Loss of bowel control<\/li>\n<li>Loss of bladder control<\/li>\n<li>Unbearable pain<\/li>\n<li>Progressive numbness<\/li>\n<li>Inability to stand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When these symptoms appear, it is a medical necessity to physically remove that herniated fragment from there with surgical intervention in order to save the nerve and prevent permanent paralysis.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Traditional_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_Methods_and_How_Are_They_Performed\"><\/span>What Are the Traditional Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery Methods and How Are They Performed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With the development of medical technologies, lumbar disc herniation operations have also undergone a major evolution. Today, the most commonly performed surgical method is the procedure called &#8220;Microdiscectomy&#8221;, which is performed under high-tech surgical microscopes. This surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, in which the patient is completely put to sleep. A small incision of approximately two centimeters is made in the patient\u2019s lower back at the point directly over the area where the hernia is located. The tissues and muscles under the skin are gently separated with special instruments and the spinal bone is reached. The surgeon removes a small part of the bone tissue and the connective tissue underneath to open the path to the nerve. Thanks to the enormous magnification and powerful illumination provided by the microscope, the nerve root is carefully protected and the hernia fragments compressing it are removed from their location with microsurgical instruments.<\/p>\n<p>Another popular surgical option is &#8220;Endoscopic Discectomy&#8221;, in other words, closed hernia surgery as it is commonly known. In this method, the incision is much smaller, and the procedure is performed through mini holes of only a few millimeters. A thin tube with a high-resolution camera at its tip is placed in the procedure area. Thanks to the camera, the herniated tissue is viewed in enormous size on the screen and cleaned from over the nerve.<\/p>\n<p>In much more severe cases, for example if the herniated disc has completely collapsed, if there is serious narrowing in the spinal canal and if slippage (instability) has occurred in the spine, &#8220;Laminectomy&#8221; or fusion surgeries, popularly known as platinum surgery, are performed. In these procedures, the posterior bone of the spine is widened, the entire damaged disc is removed from its place, and titanium cages are placed between two vertebral bones to restore the stability of the spine.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Risks_After_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery_and_What_Is_Failed_Back_Surgery_Syndrome\"><\/span>What Are the Risks After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery and What Is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>No matter how advanced surgical techniques are, every surgical intervention naturally carries some risks and disadvantages. Unfortunately, not all patients who undergo hernia surgery may achieve a completely pain-free and problem-free life. After surgery, mild or moderate chronic lower back pain, aching pain in the legs and movement limitations may continue in some patients.<\/p>\n<p>In open or microscopic operations, making an incision in the tissues, stripping the muscles to reach the bone and receiving anesthesia are inevitable. However, one of the most feared outcomes of surgeries is the condition called &#8220;epidural fibrosis&#8221;. The body shows a natural reaction to heal the tissue damage in the operated area and creates a scar tissue there. This hard tissue can, over time, surround the nerve root like an adhesive. Even though the hernia has been physically removed, this time the nerve becomes trapped and suffocated within this scar tissue and the pain becomes severe again. The condition in which the patient\u2019s pain does not go away as a result of the hernia recurring from the same place or the development of these adhesions is called &#8220;Failed Back Surgery Syndrome&#8221;, and its treatment is quite a difficult process.<\/p>\n<p>General risks that may be encountered after surgery are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Development of infection<\/li>\n<li>Bleeding problems<\/li>\n<li>Nerve damage<\/li>\n<li>Anesthesia complications<\/li>\n<li>Epidural fibrosis<\/li>\n<li>Hernia recurrence<\/li>\n<li>Chronic pain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_Be_Considered_During_the_Recovery_Process_After_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery\"><\/span>What Should Be Considered During the Recovery Process After Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Patients who have undergone surgery need to be very careful during the recovery process so that the tissues heal properly and spinal health is protected. In the first weeks, especially in-bed positions are of great importance. To break muscle spasm and reduce the load on the spine, pillow supports should be placed under the knees and hips while lying on the back. When lying on the side, the legs should be slightly pulled toward the abdomen so that the spine remains straight, and a pillow must definitely be placed between the two knees. Lying face down is definitely not recommended because it disrupts the natural curve of the lower back. As soon as recovery begins, starting multidisciplinary physical therapy and rehabilitation programs is essential for a healthy life so that the body can regain its former flexibility and muscle strength.<\/p>\n<p>The basic rules that must be followed during the recovery period are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Not lying face down<\/li>\n<li>Using support while lying on the side<\/li>\n<li>Avoiding heavy lifting<\/li>\n<li>Not making sudden turns<\/li>\n<li>Walking regularly<\/li>\n<li>Continuing physical therapy<\/li>\n<li>Maintaining ideal weight<\/li>\n<li>Paying attention to posture<\/li>\n<li>Not sitting for long periods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Interventional_Radiology_in_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Treatment_and_How_Are_Non-Surgical_Solutions_Applied\"><\/span>What Is Interventional Radiology in Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment and How Are Non-Surgical Solutions Applied?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Many patients are rightfully hesitant about receiving general anesthesia, having an incision made in their body, staying in the hospital for days and being away from work. This is exactly where &#8220;Interventional Radiology&#8221;, which serves as a perfect bridge between traditional drug treatments and surgical operations, comes into play.<\/p>\n<p>Interventional radiology works under the guidance of extremely advanced high-tech imaging devices such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy (scopy), computed tomography or magnetic resonance (MR). Its logic is extremely elegant and effective: instead of cutting and dissecting the patient\u2019s tissues with a scalpel, the body is entered through pathways as small as a needle hole and the problematic area producing the pain is treated directly. During these procedures, thanks to imaging devices, the inside of the human body is monitored instantly and live on monitors. The route, angle and distance to the nerve of the special needles used are controlled with millimetric precision. In this way, the margin of error is reduced to zero and safe, directly target-oriented treatments are performed.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Advantages_of_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Treatment_with_Interventional_Radiology_Compared_to_Surgery\"><\/span>What Are the Advantages of Lumbar Disc Herniation Treatment with Interventional Radiology Compared to Surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The comfort and medical advantages offered by these non-surgical methods for patients are quite numerous when compared with traditional open surgeries. Almost all of the procedures are performed under local anesthesia or with mild relaxing medications while the patient is conscious. Since no scalpel is used in the body, no damage occurs in the skin or muscles, no stitches are placed, and no surgical scar remains on the body. Since there is no cutting and dissecting process, the risk of tissue adhesion (epidural fibrosis), which is the biggest handicap of open surgeries, is eliminated.<\/p>\n<p>The main advantages of interventional radiology methods are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Does not require general anesthesia<\/li>\n<li>No surgical incision is made<\/li>\n<li>Leaves no stitch scar<\/li>\n<li>The risk of bleeding is low<\/li>\n<li>The risk of infection is very low<\/li>\n<li>Hospitalization is not required<\/li>\n<li>The recovery process is fast<\/li>\n<li>Tissues are not damaged<\/li>\n<li>Does not create a risk of adhesion<\/li>\n<li>The procedure can be repeated<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most patients can walk home one hour after the procedure and can comfortably continue their daily life and desk job the next day.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Pinpoint_Injection_Epidural_Steroid_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_What_Is_Its_Effect\"><\/span>What Is a Pinpoint Injection (Epidural Steroid) for Lumbar Disc Herniation and What Is Its Effect?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The first step of non-surgical treatments is formed by Epidural Steroid Injections, which are often known among the public as &#8220;pinpoint injection&#8221;. The main goal in this treatment is to dry the acidic burning, inflammation and edema caused around the nerve by the fluid leaking from inside the disc directly at its source. While painkillers taken orally spread throughout the whole body through the bloodstream and lose their effect, in this method a powerful edema-resolving drug mixture is delivered, under the guidance of imaging devices, with a millimetric needle exactly to the point where the hernia compresses the nerve.<\/p>\n<p>To make sure that the needle has reached the correct place, a colored liquid (contrast agent) is first administered inside. How the medication spreads around the nerve is monitored live on the screen and, after approval, the actual therapeutic medication is injected. The procedure is extremely safe and provides the patient with rapid relief. When the edema around the nerve resolves, the pain subsides, the muscle spasm ends, and the body can activate its own natural healing mechanism and eliminate that small hernia fragment over time.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Are_Ozone_Therapy_and_the_Nucleoplasty_Procedure_Performed_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\"><\/span>How Are Ozone Therapy and the Nucleoplasty Procedure Performed for Lumbar Disc Herniation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If the hernia has not only caused edema but has also created a serious mechanical protrusion toward the spinal canal, technologies aimed at reducing the physical size of the hernia through non-surgical methods are used. In the procedure called &#8220;Nucleoplasty&#8221;, the exact center of the disc is entered with a very thin cannula under fluoroscopy guidance. Thanks to a thin wire sent through this cannula that emits radiofrequency or plasma energy, the damaged excess tissue inside the disc is heated and vaporized within seconds. When the amount of material inside decreases, the internal pressure of the disc drops and the herniated fragment that has protruded outward is vacuumed inward and retracted.<\/p>\n<p>Another popular and effective application of this logic is Intradiscal Ozone Therapy (Ozononucleolysis). Again, in the same way, a mixture of pure oxygen and ozone gas is injected into the disc under imaging guidance. Ozone gas is an extremely powerful antioxidant and drying agent. By rapidly absorbing the water inside the hernia, it enables the hernia to shrink and become smaller. In addition, thanks to the natural anti-inflammatory effect of ozone, the inflammation in the area dries up and the repair of damaged tissues at the cellular level accelerates. Especially in recent years, the healing process has been supported much more strongly by administering cell-renewing fluids such as PRP obtained from the patient\u2019s own blood into the disc together with ozone.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Laser_PLDD_Treatment_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_and_How_Does_It_Provide_Recovery\"><\/span>What Is Laser (PLDD) Treatment for Lumbar Disc Herniation and How Does It Provide Recovery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD) is based on the principle that the structure of the disc is a closed hydraulic system filled with water. Think of a closed balloon; if you remove even a very small amount of air or water from inside this balloon, the tension applied from the inside to the walls of the balloon drops immediately.<\/p>\n<p>In this procedure, while the patient is lying face down, only the entry point is numbed and a special needle is placed in the center of the disc. A laser fiber as thin as a hair is passed through this needle. Using laser energy, only a very small part of the fluid in the exact center of the disc is vaporized. Even this very small vaporization is enough to reduce the high hydro-mechanical pressure inside the disc by half. When the pressure drops, the tension in the herniated part disappears and the nerve breathes a sigh of relief. Although the size of the hernia may not appear to have decreased immediately on MRIs taken after the procedure, because the internal pressure has decreased, those terrible pains radiating to the patient\u2019s leg disappear dramatically. It is a very effective method in early-stage or moderate hernias.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Radiofrequency_Method_in_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Pain_and_What_Is_It_Used_For\"><\/span>What Is the Radiofrequency Method in Lumbar Disc Herniation Pain and What Is It Used For?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Sometimes, even if the patient\u2019s hernia has shrunk or been treated, because the nerve root has been compressed and irritated for months, it continues to produce pain signals on its own like a faulty electrical cable that short-circuits. In these cases, the method called &#8220;Radiofrequency Neuromodulation&#8221; comes to the rescue.<\/p>\n<p>The interventional radiologist places the radiofrequency needle directly on the nerve root that transmits those faulty pain signals to the brain, under the guidance of high-resolution devices. In the procedure, a special mode called &#8220;Pulsed RF&#8221; is used in order not to burn the nerve and not to cause permanent damage. Current is applied to the nerve with short radio waves at the millisecond level and then it is allowed to cool. Thus, the heat never exceeds 42 degrees. Thanks to these electromagnetic waves, without causing any damage to the motor nerves that enable the patient to move the leg, only the thin nerve fibers carrying pain are stunned and the transmission of pain to the brain is blocked. This is like formatting or resetting a computer and provides long-term significant relief in the patient\u2019s pain.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Are_Discogel_and_Epiduroscopy_Applications_Preferred_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation\"><\/span>When Are Discogel and Epiduroscopy Applications Preferred for Lumbar Disc Herniation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Another non-surgical treatment option offered by developing medical technologies is the injection of a special, tissue-friendly gel (Discogel) into the disc under imaging guidance. When this gel structure reaches the inside of the disc, it balances the pressure there, increases water retention capacity, and helps the disc regain its former flexibility, supporting the retraction of the hernia inward.<\/p>\n<p>If a patient has undergone open lumbar disc herniation surgery in the past and the pain has not gone away, &#8220;Failed Back Surgery Syndrome&#8221; and adhesions are usually involved. In this case, an advanced technology procedure called &#8220;Epiduroscopy&#8221; is applied. Through the natural anatomical opening in the patient\u2019s coccyx, very thin and flexible camera systems with an optical lens at the tip are entered and advanced along the spinal canal. Thanks to these micro cameras, the scar tissues that compress and suffocate the nerve are seen directly on the screen. With laser, radiofrequency or mechanical devices sent through the same system, these adhesions are safely shaved and opened, and the nerve is freed from that narrow area where it was compressed.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Should_Interventional_Radiology_Be_Evaluated_Before_the_Decision_for_Lumbar_Disc_Herniation_Surgery\"><\/span>Why Should Interventional Radiology Be Evaluated Before the Decision for Lumbar Disc Herniation Surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Lumbar disc herniation is a serious condition that exhausts a person both physically and psychologically and can turn even the simplest activities of daily life into torture. In traditional treatment approaches, patients who do not benefit from painkillers and physical therapy often find themselves directly faced with open surgical options. However, in contemporary medical practice, tissue-respecting and protective medicine is at the forefront. Considering the permanent risks included in traditional open surgeries, such as anesthesia, bleeding, length of hospital stay and, most importantly, adhesion (fibrosis) that may develop after surgery, surgery should always be the last resort.<\/p>\n<p>If you have severe pain in your lower back and leg, but do not have red flag symptoms requiring very urgent surgery such as the beginning of paralysis in your ankle, sudden urinary incontinence or severe loss of strength in the leg, the safest path you should evaluate before going under the knife is Interventional Radiology applications. Pinpoint treatments applied under the guidance of imaging devices, ozone applications, laser procedures that reduce intradiscal pressure and radiofrequency treatments that stop pain signals are the most rational options developed for you to regain your health without harming your body and anatomical integrity.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Lumbar disc herniation surgery is the process of physically removing the herniated tissue that presses on the nerves as a result of tearing in the spinal discs, using microsurgery or endoscopic systems. This operation is usually performed by entering through a small incision opened in the lower back area and cleaning the damaged fragments compressing [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":15548,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[312],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15549","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15549","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15549"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15549\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16528,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15549\/revisions\/16528"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15548"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15549"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15549"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15549"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}