Treating Sciatica With MIS
Chronic leg pain is a condition affecting both active and sedentary individuals. Doctors classify chronic leg pain as consistent nerve pain, throbbing, or discomfort in the buttock, thigh, and lower leg. Sometimes, this condition is sciatica, a symptom of an underlying spinal condition. Sciatica can severely impact the quality of life, especially if left untreated. In serious situations, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) can provide much-needed relief without the significant consequences of open surgery.
Causes and symptoms of sciatica
The nerves of the body all branch from the spinal cord. The sciatic nerves are the biggest in the body, starting at the lower back and running down each leg. The spinal cord is protected by bones and discs. However, conditions like herniated discs, degenerative discs, or spinal stenosis can apply pressure to the sciatic nerve. Rubbing on the nerves leads to pain in the leg, especially when standing or sitting for long periods. Over time, sciatica patients experience weakness when bending the knee, numbness, and pain when moving the leg in specific directions.
Time for treatment
In most cases, sciatica can be treated conservatively, especially when identified early. The patient will need physical tests, x-rays, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm the condition. From there, pain medication, physical therapy (PT), and steroid injections can provide relief. Making specific lifestyle changes, including incorporating exercise and reducing sedentary behavior, can also help. There are occasions, however, when these conservative methods fail to provide long-term relief. At that point, the doctor and patient will discuss surgery.
Opting for MIS
Minimally invasive surgery is a type of surgical procedure that uses small incisions to access and treat the underlying issue. The surgeon uses a tool called an arthroscope, which is a long, thin tool consisting of a light and a camera. Arthroscopy happens through an incision the size of a buttonhole. The surgeon will also make additional small incisions to insert other surgical tools. To treat sciatica, the patient will likely need a microdiscectomy using MIS, where part of the damaged disc is removed to provide space for the nerves. A laminectomy is another option, where the bone is removed to relieve pressure on the spine.
Minimally invasive, maximum benefits
Doctors can treat sciatica with conventional open surgery. However, there are more benefits to MIS. For starters, the surgeon only needs to make small incisions, resulting in a faster recovery and fewer scars for the patient. MIS also reduces the chances of infection. Since MIS is performed as outpatient surgery, the patient can leave on the same day. MIS offers many advantages and will soon be the gold standard for surgery.
No more chronic leg pain
After surgery, the patient will undergo an 8-12 week recovery period before experiencing maximum relief. Pain and discomfort will occur during the initial recovery period but will subside with time. Most patients will need post-op PT to improve strength and stability. On average, up to 90% of patients experience significant relief from sciatica after surgery. Over time, chronic leg pain can severely impact the quality of life. With MIS, there is a chance to get long-term relief and return to normal activities.
