What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc is a bulge in the spinal disc. The discs in your spine act like shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A herniated/bulging disc presses against the nerve causing pain.

 

Are there different kinds of herniated discs?

Yes, there are various kinds. An important distinction is between"contained" and "non-contained" herniations. Each disc is made up of two different parts -- the center (nucleus) and the outside portion (annulus). The annulus completely surrounds the nucleus to hold and protect it.

 

a) In a contained disc, the nucleus pushes against the annulus causing it to bulge and press against the nerve. Studies have shown that four out of five patients with contained herniated discs can benefit from a LASE procedure.

 

 

b) With a non-contained disc, the nucleus pushes its way through the annulus and presses directly against the nerve. An individual with a non-contained herniated disc is often not a good candidate for the LASE procedure.

 

What is the LASE procedure?

The LASE technique is designed to reduce the bulging nucleus enough to eliminate the pressure it is placing on the nerve. A miniature endoscope with a laser fiber is inserted into the disc. The incision through the skin is less than 1/4 inch. The LASE endoscope allows your doctor to see the bulging disc tissue and remove it with the laser fiber. By removing some of the nucleus from the disc, the pressure on the nerve is reduced or eliminated along with the pain.

 

Will I benefit from LASE therapy?

Your doctor is the best person to answer that question. In many cases, LASE therapy can return the quality of life you had prior to the onset of the leg and low back pain.

 

Is the LASE technique a new procedure?

Surgeons have been removing part of the nucleus since about 1936. Endoscopes and lasers have been used for more than ten years. Joining the laser fiber and endoscope into one device represents state-of-the-art technology. More than 7,000 LASE procedures have been performed. Multiple studies have shown that four out of five properly selected patients with contained herniated discs benefit from this procedure.

 

Is the LASE procedure risk-free?

Any surgical procedure has risks. The LASE procedure is no exception, but with the proper technique, the risks are minimal because of the less invasive approach.

 

Do I need to stay in the hospital over night?

A LASE procedure is normally performed in an outpatient setting. This means you will go home the same day. Your doctor will most likely administer local anesthesia and you will be conscious during the procedure.

 

If I am awake during the LASE procedure, will I feel pain?

The potential for feeling discomfort during the procedure does exist. Everyone's pain level is different, so it is impossible to predict whether you will experience pain. You will be awake during the procedure, however, so if you inform your doctor of any discomfort, the local anesthetic can be adjusted appropriately.

 

Will I have a scar?

A very small one. After the LASE procedure you will go home with a Band-Aid™ over the incision. This is a clear advantage over traditional surgery.

 

How soon after the procedure can I expect relief from my pain?

The quality of life for most patients usually improves in just a matter of days and, for some, a noticeable improvement is detected on the day of surgery. Your doctor will prescribe additional therapy as needed after your LASE procedure.

 

What if I'm one of the few who doesn't benefit from LASE?

If you are the one in five patients who does not benefit from LASE therapy, you have not eliminated any of your options. Your doctor will still be able to offer the same therapeutic options you have today.