Suggest Alternative Treatment For Disc Compression In Spinal Cord

Posted on Wed, 18 Nov 2015

Question: My L4-L5 disc is gone the nerves in that area are being pushed into the spinal cord.I spent Apr-May in a wheelchair, I've using a cane ever since. IT happened again on Oct 24.They only thing they will do is give me a shot of Morphine and Oxcycotine. It does not help.Cortezon shots don't work any more,also taking prednisone to help with the swelling.My question is,is there a procedure that can done that will eliminate the nerve.The VA says there isn't I have basically live with it.Thank for anything information that might help.XXXX.retired

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (38 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Decompressive surgery should be considered.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

If nerves and spinal cord are compressed and conservative treatment should be considered as a possible way to relieve your symptoms.

One of the procedures that can be appropriate in your case is decompressive posterior laminectomy with or without posterior stabilization.

Autologous bone or synthetic spacers can be used also during surgery to restore the distance between vertebrae.

These issues should be discussed with a Neurosurgeon.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T