Herniated Disc Surgery in Staten Island, NY
Spinal discs perform a vital function in cushioning the spine. When one becomes damaged, intense pain can result. Richmond University Medical Center is committed to providing comprehensive care for members of the Staten Island, New York, community. We offer a variety of spine disorder treatments, including herniated disc surgery, to help our patients return to pain-free lives.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
The spine is constructed with several interlocking bones called vertebrae. Each pair of vertebrae is separated by a pad of rubbery tissue with a gel-like center. This pad, which is called a spinal disc, helps absorb shock and cushion the spine during intense activity. Though resilient, these discs can become damaged when subject to extreme stress or wear and tear, causing the gel center to leak or bulge outward. This condition is called a herniated disc but may also be referred to as a:
- Ruptured disc
- Slipped disc
- Bulging disc
A herniated disc can develop for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is injury, though they may also arise due to gradual wear and tear from repetitive movements. The condition can affect anyone at any age. However, older individuals are more susceptible as age may make spinal discs brittle.
What Are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
Because the spinal canal is very narrow, leaking gel from a herniated disc may press against nerves in the spine. This impedes their function, causing debilitating symptoms such as:
- Intense shooting pain
- Muscle stiffness or weakness
- Numbness or tingling in extremities
- Sharp, burning sensations in extremities
- Development of sciatica
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
The location of the herniated disc in the spine determines where the pain occurs. Symptoms may also intensify during certain activities. For example, a herniated disc in the lower back may cause increased pain when sitting, standing, or walking.
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is not always required for a herniated disc. Many mild cases can be treated effectively through conservative means. The Richmond University Medical Center team works with patients to develop a personalized care plan, which may include:
- Pain relief medications
- Injection therapy
- Physical therapy
- Reduced exercise
However, these methods are not always effective. Severe pain may not go away with conservative treatment, and in other cases, the pain may return after treatment. If non-surgical methods have failed to provide the relief patients are looking for, then surgery may be considered. Patients should discuss with their Richmond University Medical Center physician to determine whether surgery is the right step.
Herniated Disc Surgery Procedures at Richmond University Medical Center
The Brain and Spine Center at Richmond University Medical Center has expertise in handling a wide variety of back pain conditions, including herniated discs. Our knowledgeable physicians use state-of-the-art tools and techniques to achieve the best possible results from treatment. Some procedures we offer include:
- Discectomy: This procedure involves removing all of a damaged spinal disc. An artificial disc may then be implanted, or the vertebrae may be stabilized with a spinal fusion.
- Microdiscectomy: This procedure removes only part of a damaged disc. By leaving most of the disc in place, surgeons eliminate the need for a replacement or spinal fusion.
- Laminotomy: At times, a damaged spinal disc may be difficult to reach. Surgeons remove the back portion of a vertebra with a laminotomy to access the disc.
- Spinal fusion: This procedure involves fusing two or more vertebrae using surgical plates and a bone graft, creating a single strong bone with no pain.
Richmond University Medical Center prioritizes minimally invasive surgery when possible. These procedures use advanced tools to perform treatment through a smaller incision, reducing stress on the body. We also offer emergency services, including surgery, when necessary to address urgent complications and prevent permanent neurological damage.
Seek Treatment for Back Pain at Richmond University Medical Center
If you are struggling with persistent back pain, seek relief at Richmond University Medical Center. Our treatment center in Staten Island, NY, specializes in providing advanced procedures, including herniated disc surgery, to help patients live free of pain. Contact us to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment at a location near you.
