Preparing for Herniated Disc Surgery

Herniated disc surgery is not a common initial treatment for most patients with the condition, unless the herniated disc has caused an emergency situation such as cauda equina syndrome. Outside of the rare need for emergency surgery, a structured regimen of conservative, nonsurgical treatments lasting several weeks or months is typically sufficient to relieve any herniated disc symptoms. However, surgery may be requested in instances of severe, debilitating pain that hinders an individual's quality of life. You may be worried and nervous if you have to undergo a surgical procedure to treat a herniated disc, but it's important that you maintain a positive mindset and properly prepare for the procedure.

Before Consenting to Surgery

Take time to research the advantages and disadvantages of the specific herniated disc surgery that your doctor recommended, and create a list of questions and concerns based on the information you gather. You should also obtain second or third opinions to ensure that there are no other feasible treatment options for you.

Prior to the Procedure

Perhaps the most important aspect of preparing for herniated disc surgery is to maintain a positive outlook and attitude about the procedure, which may help you recover faster. Resting as much as possible before the procedure might also aid in a quick recovery, so enlist the help of family or friends to clean, cook meals, and perform other light tasks.

Additionally, the operating surgeon will likely provide you with a specific list of directions that you should follow in the days leading up to the procedure. These requirements might include staying hydrated, following dietary restrictions, avoiding or stopping the use of certain medications and tobacco, washing your back and neck with a special antimicrobial soap, and performing exercises. You may also want to have any prescription medications filled, so that you won't have to think about it directly after the operation.

On the Day of Herniated Disc Surgery and Following Surgery

Be sure to have a family member or a friend assist you in traveling to the operating facility and getting home, and make sure that someone is available to help you around the house in the days following your procedure. You may become anxious during this time, but you should continue to focus positively on getting better and have patience. Performing deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques may help you relieve stress and tension. Above all, follow your doctor's orders exactly, as his or her directions will be vital to a comfortable post-operative outcome.