Understanding CT Scan Results: Calcium Deposits and Teflon Concerns After Surgery
Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain? Hello, doctor. I underwent a decompression surgery for left-sided facial spasms at the end of 2016. At that time, the physician informed me that the surgical method involved creating an opening in the left posterior part of the brain an...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Generally, it is unlikely. 2. It depends on the actual imaging. 3. An MRI of the cervical spine should be performed to assess whether the symptoms are caused by cervical nerve compression. 4. Cerebral calcifications can be classified into physiological and pathological ...[Read More] Understanding CT Scan Results: Calcium Deposits and Teflon Concerns After Surgery
Spinal Tumor Surgery in Children: Risks and Post-Operative Considerations
Spinal tumor surgery and subsequent issues with hardware (screws)? Hello Doctor, my child is currently 5 years and 7 months old. A spinal tumor was detected at birth, and initially, we were just monitoring it regularly. During this time, we learned that the tumor had grown into t...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Since the child is only 5 years old and there is no detailed medical history, this issue is too specialized and complex, falling under the scope of pediatric neurosurgery. It is recommended to consult a physician in an outpatient setting.[Read More] Spinal Tumor Surgery in Children: Risks and Post-Operative Considerations
Understanding Pain and Numbness in Elderly Patients with Prostate Cancer
Foot pain with numbness and tingling? My father is in his eighties and has prostate cancer. He experiences pain on both sides of his buttocks, and his legs feel sore and numb, making it difficult for him to walk. He also has urinary and fecal incontinence. He has seen a neurologi...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected to be an issue with the lumbar spinal nerves. It is recommended to consult a hospital's <Neurosurgery> department. Best wishes to you. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of the Spine Neurosurgery Department, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Pain and Numbness in Elderly Patients with Prostate Cancer
Understanding Finger Pain: Nerve Injury or Bone Damage?
Finger issues? On April 10th, a blood draw was performed using a lancet on the left index finger, approximately one-third from the tip. After the procedure, the area was disinfected with alcohol and covered with a bandage. After the wound healed that day, light pressure on the ar...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, a standard blood draw needle will not penetrate to the bone, and there are no major nerves at the tip of the index finger. It is recommended that you observe for two weeks, as it usually improves on its own. If there is no improvement, you may consult a general surgeon or ...[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Nerve Injury or Bone Damage?
Post-Surgery Concerns for Severe Lumbar Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Postoperative Issues Following Severe Cartilage Extrusion in Segments 4-5 I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Recently, I experienced severe lower back pain that left me unable to move, so I went to the hospital. The examination results showed that there was severe herni...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Did you have the symptoms you mentioned before the surgery, such as complete swelling and numbness in the lower body, along with loss of bladder and bowel control? If so, it may indicate that there was already prolonged nerve compression prior to the surgery. 2. If thes...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns for Severe Lumbar Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Post-Accident Neurological Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery
Regarding dizziness after a car accident, issues related to the frontal lobe of the brain, neck problems, and intracranial hemorrhage? Hello, Doctor: Regarding the topic in question, I suffered a head injury after a car accident while wearing a helmet, and I lost consciousness up...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
1. Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a type of intracranial hemorrhage. 2. Observation and treatment may be possible for 3-6 months, with potential improvement. There is no specific medication, but acupuncture treatment in conjunction with traditional Chinese medicine can be considered....[Read More] Post-Accident Neurological Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery
Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Cervical spine fracture Hello, Doctor. I was in a car accident on November 10th last year, where I was rear-ended by a car traveling at 14 km/h. At the time, I sustained abrasions on my right knee and shoulder. After nearly four months of follow-up, while driving on February 26th...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If you have a fracture of the odontoid process of the second cervical vertebra and surgery is not required, you will need to wear a SOMI (Sterno-Occipital-Mandibular Immobilizer) collar for about 3 to 6 months, even while sleeping. If your symptoms persist and MRI shows th...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Understanding Hand Nerve Issues After Humerus Fracture Surgery
Hand nerves I previously had a humeral fracture and underwent surgery. During my recovery period, I frequently consulted my attending physician. I have lost sensation in the area of my palm, specifically from the ring finger to the little finger (including the fingers), and this ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
It is possible that a humeral fracture may result in nerve injury; therefore, it is recommended to consult a neurosurgery outpatient clinic for evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Hand Nerve Issues After Humerus Fracture Surgery
Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Spondylolisthesis Hello Dr. Lai: Previously, when you came to Taitung Hospital for support, I visited your clinic. You reviewed my MRI results and diagnosed me with spondylolisthesis at the fifth lumbar vertebra and the first sacral vertebra. You recommended that I undergo spinal...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Minimally invasive surgery without screws involves only removing the tissue that compresses the nerves and placing a soft cushion underneath, or removing the entire damaged intervertebral disc and then replacing it with a fusion cage, which can improve your condition....[Read More] Understanding Spondylolisthesis: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
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 ...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Understanding Nerve Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Hand issues? Hello, doctor. For the past year, I have experienced a tingling sensation in my right hand when positioned at certain angles (such as when riding a bicycle or a motorcycle). The tingling immediately alleviates when I change positions. However, four months ago, I bega...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, your condition is likely carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by compression of the nerves in the palm area. It is recommended that you consult with a neurosurgeon for evaluation and examination. Best wishes. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Left Neck Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Left neck pain? Four years ago, I experienced numbness in my left fingers and pain in my arm. After an MRI examination, it was found that there was a herniated disc at the levels of C3-C4, C4-C5, C5-C6, and C6-C7, with the C5-C6 level being more severe. I did not undergo surgery ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
X-rays cannot visualize intervertebral discs, let alone nerves. If there is a suspicion of worsening disc herniation with nerve compression, it is best to perform an MRI again.[Read More] Understanding Left Neck Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Neurological Issues: Exploring Oral Symptoms and MRI Findings
Brain issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my oral cavity for over five months. I have consulted with specialists in oral and maxillofacial surgery, dentistry, otolaryngology, neurology, and rheumatology, but so far, none have been able to provide a co...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
To be honest, what you said is too complicated, and it's difficult to answer these questions online. I recommend discussing this with a neurosurgery outpatient clinic and a physician.[Read More] Understanding Neurological Issues: Exploring Oral Symptoms and MRI Findings
Understanding Nerve Compression: Diagnosing Back Pain and Muscle Strain
Nerve compression Due to unexplained itching in the right foot and easy fatigue and swelling in the right calf and right buttock, along with pain radiating to the left side of the thigh and groin, I consulted a neurosurgeon. An X-ray revealed that the L4 and L5 intervertebral dis...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
In theory, a muscle strain should not affect nerve conduction studies. If the cause remains unclear, it is recommended to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Compression: Diagnosing Back Pain and Muscle Strain
Understanding Spasticity and Pain Management After Neurosurgery
Stiff Person Syndrome Dear Dr. Chang Jun-Wei, I am a patient who has consulted at multiple hospitals and undergone a series of tests including blood biochemistry, 24-hour urine analysis, and peripheral nerve examinations, which included sensory and motor evoked potentials, senso...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Your question is too complex to be answered online based solely on the information you provided.[Read More] Understanding Spasticity and Pain Management After Neurosurgery
Understanding Sudden Calf Tremors: Normal Reflex or Nerve Issue?
There is frequent intense shaking in the lower leg for about 2 seconds, occurring only once every morning? In recent weeks, I have been experiencing a warm sensation in my feet while under the covers, but after waking up from sleep, my feet stretch out and the area below my calve...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, if it has been ongoing for more than two weeks, you should see a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. Best wishes. // Neurosurgery, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Calf Tremors: Normal Reflex or Nerve Issue?
Understanding Thigh Nerve Compression: Treatment Options and Relief Strategies
Treatment options for femoral nerve compression? Hello Doctor, my mother has been experiencing a sensation of pressure and tingling in the groin area of her right thigh at night for the past four years. She often wakes up in the middle of the night feeling numb and needs to stand...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, There is often a feeling of pressure and a crawling sensation in the groin area, and I frequently wake up with numbness in the middle of the night. 1. It could be due to neuropathic groin pain. 2. It may also be caused by compression of the lumbar nerves. However, a scan...[Read More] Understanding Thigh Nerve Compression: Treatment Options and Relief Strategies
Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Cervical spine surgery (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) Last year, I fell from an aluminum ladder and injured my cervical spine, which led to back pain, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, blurred vision, palpitations, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, memory loss, a...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without a complete medical history, patient history, and neurological examination, it is difficult to provide an accurate answer. I apologize![Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Sympathetic Nerve Issues
Cervical spine surgery (sympathetic nerve) Hello Dr. Lai: I fell from a ladder and injured my cervical spine, which has resulted in back pain, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, blurred vision, palpitations, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, memory loss, anxiety, gastroin...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. If you have undergone surgery at another hospital and have not experienced any improvement after 4 months, you can undergo an MRI examination for evaluation; there is no such thing as "only X-rays." 2. Your symptoms may be caused by cervical spinal cord nerve ...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Spine Surgery and Sympathetic Nerve Issues
Understanding Nerve Sensation Changes After Deep Hand Lacerations
Deep muscle tear in the hand, with numbness after recovery? Hello doctor, six years ago I sustained a deep laceration on the outer side of my forearm, approximately 8 centimeters from the elbow joint, which severed part of the muscle but did not damage the nerves. After surgical ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If it has been six years, the chances of recovery are very low. It is recommended to consult a neurologist.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Sensation Changes After Deep Hand Lacerations