Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Herniated disc Hello Doctor, three years ago I had an MRI that showed a mild herniation of the intervertebral disc between the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae, which caused some nerve discomfort in my right leg. However, I did not experience any recurrence until recently. In the pas...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that you have a herniated disc compressing the nerve, leading to recurrent symptoms. You should consult another neurosurgeon who has arranged for an MRI. Wishing you the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
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
Understanding Sharp Pain in the Upper Left Back: Causes and Solutions
Back issues - sharp pain in the upper left back? Hello, doctor. Since last year, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my upper left back. It feels like there is a needle stabbing me, and sometimes it hurts when I move my arm, while at other times it hurts even when...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Preliminary assessment suggests that at your age, the muscle fascia pain and inflammation are likely caused by poor posture. You can start by correcting your posture, keeping your head up and chest out, and avoiding prolonged bending forward or slouching. Apply heat to the...[Read More] Understanding Sharp Pain in the Upper Left Back: Causes and Solutions
Post-Car Accident Symptoms: When to Seek Neurological Evaluation
After the car accident, I feel a sense of pressure in my head and have experienced symptoms such as nausea and discomfort? Hello Doctor, it has been a week since my car accident. I sustained minor skin injuries and a femur fracture, for which I underwent surgery and was hospitali...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The most concerning issue with head trauma is intracranial hemorrhage. If a week has passed without significant nausea or vomiting symptoms, it is likely not serious, and any other mild symptoms should be considered as residual effects.[Read More] Post-Car Accident Symptoms: When to Seek Neurological Evaluation
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 Recovery After Head Trauma: Key Insights and Considerations
Head trauma You were involved in a car accident on January 13, during which you underwent three surgeries: one on the left side and two on the right side, with the final surgery to repair your skull completed on February 28. You are inquiring about the recovery timeline for the r...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Everyone's condition is different, and I cannot determine your recovery period without knowing if you have any neurological dysfunction. Some individuals may have altered consciousness, while others may experience hemiplegia; it varies greatly. It is best to consult your att...[Read More] Understanding Recovery After Head Trauma: Key Insights and Considerations
Dealing with Post-Surgery Recurrence: Options After Spinal Disc Replacement
Postoperative recurrence About four to five years ago, I underwent a procedure to replace 4-5 segments of cartilage due to nerve compression. The doctor assured me that replacing the artificial cartilage would be a permanent solution. However, I now find myself in the same situat...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If you have any doubts about Dr. Yuan's explanation, I suggest you consult another neurosurgeon. The images speak for themselves. Please copy the MRI image disc and bring it to your next appointment. Wishing you all the best. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Ne...[Read More] Dealing with Post-Surgery Recurrence: Options After Spinal Disc Replacement
Understanding Hyperhidrosis: Choosing the Right Specialist and Treatment Options
Hyperhidrosis issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about which specialty I should consult for the evaluation of hyperhidrosis. I have researched surgical options, but I am hesitant to decide due to potential compensatory sweating and other postoperative issues. Addition...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. The causes of hyperhidrosis can be divided into primary and secondary; primary hyperhidrosis accounts for the majority and is mainly caused by hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system leading to abnormal sweating. Secondary hyperhidrosis is often due to condition...[Read More] Understanding Hyperhidrosis: Choosing the Right Specialist and Treatment Options
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
Can Herniated Discs Shrink or Be Absorbed Through Rehabilitation?
Herniated disc Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a herniated disc complicated by spinal stenosis can have the protruding portion reduced or absorbed by the body through rehabilitation. I previously asked some questions and scheduled a surgery, but I have noticed that the disc...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Rehabilitation primarily involves lumbar traction (spinal decompression), aiming to open up the intervertebral discs to relieve pressure. However, once the treatment ends and the machine is released, the effects may diminish. After several sessions, this can help allevi...[Read More] Can Herniated Discs Shrink or Be Absorbed Through Rehabilitation?
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 ...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Preoperative Assessments for Hydrocephalus Surgery: What You Need to Know
Hydrocephalus Surgery Evaluation My father suffered multiple fractures due to a car accident and is experiencing issues such as double vision and hydrocephalus. Although his overall health is gradually improving, the symptoms of hydrocephalus are becoming increasingly severe. We ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Before hydrocephalus surgery, a brain CT scan is essential to confirm the presence of hydrocephalus. As for whether a detailed evaluation is necessary prior to the surgery, it is theoretically required. This is because it relates to whether the patient's neurological deficit...[Read More] Preoperative Assessments for Hydrocephalus Surgery: What You Need to Know
Is Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery Suitable for Dementia from Brain Atrophy?
Cerebral atrophy leading to compensatory hydrocephalus with dementia symptoms, is it suitable for ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery? Hello Doctor, my father is 66 years old and has a history of Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, diabetes, and mental illness. In October 2019, he...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
If a patient experiences compensatory ventricular enlargement due to cerebral atrophy, performing a ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery is indeed not effective. It will not lead to significant improvement in the patient's dementia condition.[Read More] Is Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery Suitable for Dementia from Brain Atrophy?
Understanding Brain Edema Treatment Options After Tumor Surgery
Treatment of cerebral edema? My husband underwent brain tumor surgery four months ago and is currently experiencing hemiplegia and symptoms of cerebral edema (MRI shows infiltration of brain tissue with fluid accumulation, while the ventricles are normal). The attending physician...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Cerebral edema and hydrocephalus are different conditions, and their management approaches are completely distinct. Cerebral edema typically improves gradually over time.[Read More] Understanding Brain Edema Treatment Options After Tumor Surgery
Understanding Weakness and Tightness in Legs After Prolonged Sitting
After sitting for about 2-3 hours, there is a feeling of weakness in the thighs and tightness in the calves? Hello, Doctor. Recently, whenever I sit for about 2-3 hours, I experience weakness in my thighs and tightness in my calf muscles. The first time I noticed this was two yea...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
It seems like you are experiencing neurological symptoms. You may want to consult a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you. // Changhua Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding Weakness and Tightness in Legs After Prolonged Sitting
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 Skull Depression and Brain Hemorrhage After a Car Accident
Skull depression, cerebral hemorrhage? Hello, doctor. Here’s what happened: During the car accident, I was wearing a helmet, which showed no signs of impact or scratches, and I had no other bruises on my body. I remained conscious throughout. After arriving at the hospital, the d...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
A skull depression caused by impact and intracranial hemorrhage indicates that the force of the impact was significant. As for the recovery time, it cannot be determined without detailed medical history and information, and thus cannot be answered online.[Read More] Understanding Skull Depression and Brain Hemorrhage After a Car Accident
Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, Numbness, and Treatment Options
Cervical cone issues Hello, my father is nearly 70 years old. For the past few months, he has been experiencing shoulder pain that prevents him from sleeping. After visiting the hospital for an examination, the imaging results indicated that there is tightness and compression at ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your description, the symptoms indicate cervical nerve compression. The initial pain evolving into numbness suggests nerve deterioration. 2. Whether surgery is necessary will depend on the MRI findings. 3. Generally, conservative treatment includes medication a...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Pain, Numbness, and Treatment Options
Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Treatment Options and Risks
Cervical cone issues Hello, my father is nearly 70 years old. For the past few months, he has been experiencing shoulder pain that prevents him from sleeping. After visiting the hospital for an examination, the imaging results indicated that the tightness and compression at cervi...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your description, the symptoms indicate cervical nerve compression. The initial pain evolving into numbness suggests worsening of the nerve condition. 2. Whether surgery is necessary will depend on the MRI findings. 3. Generally, conservative treatment includes...[Read More] Understanding Cervical Radiculopathy: Treatment Options and Risks
Is It Normal to Experience Head and Shoulder Pain After a Head Injury?
Head struck against the wall? Hello Doctor: I bumped the right side of my head against a wall on October 11th. It wasn't very painful on the day of the incident or the following day, but starting on October 13th, I've been experiencing pain from the right side of my hea...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, you may have a cervical spine issue. If it persists for 1-2 weeks, it is advisable to consult a neurosurgeon. Best wishes to you from Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, the Director of Spine Neurosurgery at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Is It Normal to Experience Head and Shoulder Pain After a Head Injury?