Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Risks of Surgery for Lumbar Herniated Disc

In a group of 100 people who had surgery for a lumbar herniated disc, less than 1 to 2 people had an infection or some other wound problem. About 1 to 3 people had nerve root injury or new or worsening nerve-related problems, such as weakness, numbness, or tingling. About 4 to 10 people went on to have another surgery for a herniated disc.

Like most surgeries, back surgery has some risks. Risks include:

Wound problems, including infection and hematoma (bad bruise): Less than 1 to 2 out of 100 people who had surgery had an infection or some other wound problem.

Nerve damage: About 1 to 3 out of 100 people who had surgery had nerve root injury or new or worsening nerve-related problems, such as weakness, numbness, or tingling.

Having symptoms that don't get better, or having new symptoms in the future: About 4 to 10 out of 100 people who had surgery went on to have another surgery for a herniated disc.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.