25 October 2023
Hernias of the lumbar spine are a widespread pathology - they account for more than 65% of all cases. Most often, hernias occur at the level of L4 - L5 or L5 - S1, which is explained by the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of this part of the spine.
The mechanism of the development of a hernia of the lumbar spine is a violation of the integrity of the outer shell of the intervertebral disc - the fibrous ring. At the same time, the nucleus pulposus, which is located between the surfaces of adjacent vertebrae, shifts toward the gap, compressing the nerve roots. This complication from the nerve endings, which actually signals the appearance of pain, is called radiculopathy and is subject to treatment in order to decompress the nerve and restore its functions.
The appearance of hernias in the lumbar region contributes to:
Hernias of the lumbar spine are accompanied by persistent one-sided pain syndrome in the leg - on the front surface of the thigh, lower leg or on the outer lateral surface of the entire leg. For the most part, pain in the leg is accompanied by a violation of sensitivity in the toes (a feeling of numbness), a limitation of the mobility of the lumbar spine (it is difficult for the patient to fully bend forward, reach the tips of the toes). In some cases, especially when the hernia is located at the level of L4 - L5, paresis of the foot may develop with impaired gait function. The presence of a sequestrum - a free fragment of a hernia in the vertebral canal - can disrupt the function of urination (urinary incontinence).
Instrumental diagnosis of hernias of the cervical spine is based on the data of the MRI examination of the lumbar spine.
Operative treatment of hernias of the lumbar spine is shown in cases. If the size of the hernia exceeds 6 mm in the anterior-posterior dimension, it is accompanied by persistent pain syndrome in the leg. If there is a sequestration, surgical intervention should be performed urgently (up to 1 day). Preference is given to minimally invasive endoscopic techniques, in which the bony structures of the vertebrae are preserved intact, which in the future prevents the appearance of instability of the corresponding level of the spine. The criterion of a well-conducted operation is the regression of the pain syndrome in the leg immediately after the operation. At the same time, minor sensitivity disturbances can persist for a period of 2 weeks to 6 months. These disorders do not require additional treatment and pass on their own.
The average duration of inpatient treatment is from 2 to 5 days.
The "Oberig" clinic has accumulated considerable experience in specialized care for herniated discs of all sections of the spine. Get in touch.
Call: 044 521 30 03 or sign up for a consultation on the website: https://my.oberig.ua/ua/appointment/
