Lumbar spine, Neurosurgery FAQ

Understanding Nerve Issues in the Cervical Spine After Trauma

Cervical spine nerve issues? I would like to consult a physician. Recently, I had a conflict with a classmate that resulted in being hit. Prior to that, I had also been hit on the back. Each time, the hits were spaced out by one to two seconds, and the pain from the previous hit ...

Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
You have described so much, but without a physical examination, it is truly impossible to provide an answer. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for an evaluation. If you still have doubts, consider seeking opinions from several different physi...

Post-Surgery Nerve Issues: Understanding Complications After Cervical Disc Replacement

Postoperative issues following cervical disc replacement at C5-C6 and artificial cage placement at C6-C7? Hello, my father is 58 years old. A month ago, he started experiencing numbness and pain in his right arm, hand, and fingers, which has affected his daily life. After a docto...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. After cervical spine surgery, if there are new upper limb symptoms that are not significant, you can observe and follow up in 2-4 weeks. 2. If there is sudden onset of lower back pain and pain in both knees while walking, these are not symptoms related to the cervical s...

Understanding L5 Vertebral Dislocation: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Liability

L5 vertebral spondylolysis Hello, Dr. Lai! Due to a collision between a child and a motorcycle, the other party was discharged from the emergency department the same day. They returned for follow-up visits twice within two months after the emergency visit, and the diagnosis repor...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. As you have researched, vertebral arch dislocation may have some congenital issues, and combined with postnatal activities such as exercise and heavy lifting, it may worsen. Sudden traumatic injuries can also exacerbate the condition. 2. Unless you can obtain the pa...

Post-Surgery Concerns: Can I Remove Screws After Lumbar Fusion?

Postoperative lumbar spine surgery Hello Doctor: I underwent fusion surgery on my lumbar spine at L4, L5, and S1 in 2015, where 6 screws were implanted. The protruding parts at L4 and L5 were removed, and a spacer was placed at L5-S1. I still feel discomfort post-surgery. I have ...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, 1. If the implanted spacer has fused, the fixation screws may be considered for removal. 2. What you are feeling as a protrusion needs to be evaluated in person. It is advisable to consult an experienced spine neurosurgeon for an examination. 3. Can the spacer displace...

Post-Surgery Complications After Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Patient's Experience

Postoperative Issues After Spinal Spondylolisthesis Surgery Three years ago, I underwent surgery on my lumbar spine at the L4-L5 levels. Currently, I need to wear compression stockings for support in order to walk. I also frequently experience urinary incontinence and require med...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Although you have worked hard to write a lot, I need more information for evaluation and reasoning. Since I cannot see the patient or the imaging directly, I can only suggest that you return for a follow-up appointment with the original surgeon to discuss your concerns. If...

Navigating Hydrocephalus Treatment Options: Drainage vs. Shunt Surgery

Hydrocephalus Consultation My mother, who is 50 years old, has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus. One hospital suggested performing a lumbar puncture to drain fluid first, followed by a shunt placement, arguing that the pathway from the brain to the lumbar spine is obstructed, ma...

Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Patients have different conditions, and the management approaches vary accordingly. It is advisable to visit a medical center or consult multiple hospitals.

Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Addressing Nerve Compression and Surgical Options

Questions regarding adjacent segments of the lumbar spine? Hello, Doctor: I have the following questions that I hope you can clarify: The patient is a 59-year-old female who underwent successful lumbar spine surgery at the L5 and S1 levels in 2012 (with interbody fusion and screw...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is important to determine if the compressed nerve root corresponds to the patient's symptoms. Generally, compression at the L4-5 segment affects the L5 nerve root, which typically presents as pain radiating from the buttock down to the lateral aspect of the calf...

Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights

Herniated disc Hello Doctor, last month I went to the hospital for an examination due to lower back pain and found out that I have multiple herniated discs, with the first, second, fourth, and fifth discs being the most severe (the fourth and fifth discs are completely herniated ...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
1. Over 90% improvement is achievable, with a safety rate of over 99% (unless there are specific underlying conditions) (##but this depends on the surgical method you ultimately choose##). 2. It is essential to review your imaging and symptoms. The benefits of the product come ...

Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights

Herniated disc Hello, doctor. My family member is 58 years old and has been diagnosed with herniated discs at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, along with nerve compression. I have attached MRI images: (I apologize for uploading multiple images as I wasn't sure which on...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, 1. Your family member has significant nerve compression, with the most severe being at the L4-5 level, where there is already a herniation and rupture. Medically, surgery has been recommended. However, if symptoms have improved, continuing conservative rehabilitation is ...

Understanding Lumbar and Coccyx Issues: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about issues related to the lumbar spine and the coccyx? Hello, doctor. Here's the situation. For about a year now, I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my anus, and after urinating, there are a few drops of urine l...

Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If there is nerve compression, it cannot be clearly seen with just an X-ray; generally, an MRI is also needed. It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for a professional evaluation.

Understanding Nerve Issues: Tremors, Numbness, and Speech Difficulties

Tremors, body numbness, and difficulty speaking? 1. After riding a bike for about 20 minutes, my buttocks become completely numb, and my back often feels tingly and prickly. 2. Recently, while typing, my left thumb has been shaking involuntarily. 3. I've noticed that when I ...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. It may be a lumbar spine issue causing sciatica. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon. 2+3: First, see a neurologist to rule out any cranial nerve problems. Best wishes // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.

Understanding Unusual Spine Sensations: When to Seek Medical Advice

The lumbar spine feels unusual? Hello Dr. Chang, I apologize for the lengthy message. This morning, after using the restroom, I suddenly felt something unusual in my lumbar spine (it wasn't painful). After struggling to finish, I noticed that walking felt strange (again, no...

Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a neurosurgery clinic for an examination; it will be safer and give you peace of mind.

Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and When to Seek Help

Sciatica Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask if these symptoms are related to sciatica? Can they be treated with rehabilitation alone, or do I need further examinations? If so, which specialist should I see? Thank you! I have pain in the lumbar region, neck and shoulder discomfort...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your lumbar spine, cervical spine, and knees all need to be examined. It is recommended to consult a neurosurgeon for evaluation. Physical therapy can be attempted, but whether you can recover through rehabilitation will depend on your condition. Best wishes. // Dr. Lai Ch...

Pregnancy Concerns After Multiple Failed Spine Surgeries: What to Know

I have undergone two surgeries on the lumbar spine at L4-5 and S1, but they have still been unsuccessful. Is it possible for me to become pregnant? Dear Dr. Lai, Hello! Thank you for your hard work. I am the patient who previously visited your clinic; I had a failed lumbar spine...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Sorry for the late reply, I've been busy. 1. Is my body able to handle this? I suggest you first consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist to confirm the presence of the embryo. If it is confirmed, I recommend you: "Be strong as a mother." First, take care o...

Post-Traumatic Recovery: Addressing Balance Issues After Spinal Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery for the first lumbar vertebra, subarachnoid hemorrhage? Hello Doctor, I previously had a car accident that resulted in subarachnoid hemorrhage. The doctor said it would absorb on its own, and I was in a coma in the intensive care unit for about two week...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: I personally suggest that both the brain and spine need further evaluation. Please visit the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for a physician's assessment. Wishing you all the best. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang

Understanding Post-Trauma Walking Instability: Brain vs. Lumbar Spine Issues

Understanding Disc Herniation: Severity, Treatment Options, and Surgery

The severity of a herniated disc and the decision to undergo surgery? Hello Doctor, earlier this year I experienced muscle tightness in my back (with a forward protrusion on the right side). During the Lunar New Year, I began to have lower back pain and numbness in my legs (with ...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The nucleus pulposus at the L5-S1 level can be absorbed, but if left untreated for a long time, it will degenerate, become dehydrated, and harden, making it more difficult to manage later. Additionally, the intervertebral height will gradually decrease, which can lead...

Should You Continue Rehab for Herniated Discs? Expert Insights

Should I continue rehabilitation for a herniated disc? Hello, doctor. I am 177 cm tall and weigh 70 kg. In March of this year, I visited a neurologist. Initially, the straight leg raise test, X-rays, and nerve conduction studies showed no issues. On March 29, I had an MRI, and du...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: I have reviewed your MRI images, and there is indeed a condition present. Your questions are: 1. Based on my MRI, what is the likelihood of recovery through rehabilitation? 2. Why might my symptoms worsen after the first rehabilitation session? 3. If I want to continue reh...

Delayed Symptoms After Car Accident: Understanding Neurological Issues

Symptoms appearing two months after a car accident? Hello Dr. Lai: I was struck in the lower back and pelvis by a moving car while walking on December 14th of last year. At that time, I only felt soreness and immediately had an X-ray taken, which showed no abnormalities. However,...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms suggest that there may be damage to your lumbar spine. It is recommended that you consult a neurosurgeon for further examination and treatment. You are 28 years old. If there are no factors such as heavy lifting, poor posture, or congenital issues, it is less...

Choosing the Best Surgery for Hydrocephalus: Spinal vs. Brain Drainage

Which surgical method is more effective for hydrocephalus? Hello doctor, my mother has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus at the age of 69. After evaluations from two doctors, one suggested that spinal drainage carries minimal risk, while the other recommended brain drainage. When...

Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is the standard procedure, and the vast majority of hydrocephalus cases worldwide undergo this surgery. However, patients may have concerns due to the direct puncture of the brain to implant the catheter. 2. Lumbar-peritoneal (LP) shun...

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