Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy
Minimally invasive lumbar discectomy (for herniated disc at L4/L5) Dear Doctor: I underwent minimally invasive lumbar discectomy surgery for a herniated disc at the L4/L5 level at Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital on November 26. It has been a week since the surgery, and I hav...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, sir. What your doctor said is correct: the surgery only relocates the stones that are compressing the nerves; the damage caused by nerve compression has not yet recovered. We refer to this as nerve decompression. The recovery status depends on the extent of the initial ner...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms After Minimally Invasive Lumbar Discectomy
Understanding Nerve Damage After Neck Injury: Recovery and Concerns
Neuropathy Hello Dr. Ding, I apologize for bothering you! My father-in-law had an accident in August this year where he collided with someone, resulting in neck injuries. He has been wearing a cervical collar and is experiencing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, neck pain, ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Any injury to the head can be collectively referred to as a head trauma. A concussion is generally defined as a loss of consciousness lasting more than 10 minutes following a head injury, with recovery of consciousness occurring within 24 hours; it is considered one of the mildes...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Damage After Neck Injury: Recovery and Concerns
Understanding L5 Vertebral Arch Fractures: Surgery, Pregnancy, and Pain Management
Fracture of the fifth vertebral arch? Hello, Doctor! Nine years ago, I experienced severe lower back pain and pain in my lower body that left me unable to move. It wasn't until the following year when I returned to Taiwan to see a doctor that I learned I had a fracture of th...
Dr. Xie Bojun Reply:
1. Fracture of the fifth vertebral arch is a complex condition, and all physicians are correct in stating so. 2. To diagnose your condition, it is necessary to perform X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) along with a clinical physical assessment to address your concerns.[Read More] Understanding L5 Vertebral Arch Fractures: Surgery, Pregnancy, and Pain Management
Understanding Neurofibromatosis Type 2 After Acoustic Neuroma Surgery
At the age of 19, I underwent surgery for a unilateral vestibular schwannoma (4mm)? As per the title, I had surgery three years ago, and during my one-year follow-up, there was no recurrence. The doctor mentioned that I could follow up again in five years. I should have felt reli...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
NF2 has specific criteria; if you do not meet these criteria, you should not be diagnosed with NF2. I think you do not need to worry too much, just ensure proper monitoring.[Read More] Understanding Neurofibromatosis Type 2 After Acoustic Neuroma Surgery
Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness from L4-L5 Disc Herniation
There is a herniated disc issue at the L4 and L5 levels? Hello, three years ago I had a herniated disc at the L4 and L5 levels that was compressing a nerve, causing numbness in my left calf. Three months ago, the doctor performed surgery to remove the herniated disc. Although the...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, regarding your symptoms after surgery. Since I am not familiar with your specific situation, the following suggestions are for reference only. Generally speaking, if there is an acute herniated disc with nerve root compression, surgery can be performed for decompression. H...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Pain and Numbness from L4-L5 Disc Herniation
Post-Discectomy Care: Managing Pain and Recovery Timeline
Postoperative Care and Complications After Discectomy I just had a discectomy on May 31 and have returned home to rest. Besides showering and sleeping, I wear a lumbar support brace. The doctor said that I did not have any artificial titanium metal or support structures implanted...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, it is normal to experience pain at the surgical site after surgery. However, if the pain persists, it may be necessary to consider the possibility of an infection. Nerve adhesions typically do not occur immediately after surgery. For my patients, I stil...[Read More] Post-Discectomy Care: Managing Pain and Recovery Timeline
Understanding Hydrocephalus Surgery: Options and Risks Explained
Surgical Methods for Hydrocephalus Hello Dr. Chang! My father is 70 years old and was previously paralyzed in bed due to a stroke. He currently has hydrocephalus (which existed before the stroke but was untreated due to the stroke) and is experiencing seizures. He is taking antic...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Hello, Miss Chun-Ying. It is commonly said that hydrocephalus can occur in two situations: one is ventricular enlargement leading to hydrocephalus, and the other is subdural hematoma. The surgical approach for the former involves the placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, wit...[Read More] Understanding Hydrocephalus Surgery: Options and Risks Explained
Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: Recovery and Communication Challenges
Intracranial hemorrhage Hello Doctor: My father was admitted to the hospital on April 29 due to intracranial hemorrhage and underwent surgery to remove the hematoma. He woke up on May 1. The nurse said that his intracranial pressure and everything else were normal. We have been t...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Yin, Hello. Based on the current information, it is difficult for me to provide an accurate answer, as the perception of whether he has truly regained consciousness may differ between the general public and medical professionals. From the content of the article, it appears ...[Read More] Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: Recovery and Communication Challenges
Understanding Post-Surgery Pain After Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Herniated disc It is normal to experience intermittent soreness after a herniated disc surgery, especially if the pain is not localized to one specific area. This can occur as the body heals and adjusts post-surgery. The duration of soreness can vary widely among individuals, but...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Postoperative pain should improve within about a month. If it persists, please visit the outpatient clinic for an examination. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Pain After Disc Herniation: What to Expect
Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Risks, Growth, and Pregnancy Concerns
Nine years ago, a pituitary tumor was removed? Recently, I met a 26-year-old woman through a matchmaking event. She underwent surgery for a pituitary tumor nine years ago, but the tumor could not be completely removed due to its pressure on the optic nerve. I have a few questions...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Pituitary tumors can be functional (producing excessive hormones) or non-functional. After surgery 9 years ago, there should have been continuous follow-up and examinations. I am unsure if postoperative radiation therapy was administered. Long-term use of some supplemental...[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Risks, Growth, and Pregnancy Concerns
Post-Surgery Leg Cramps: Understanding Symptoms After Spinal Fusion
Muscle cramps in the foot after bone fusion surgery? Hello, Director Zheng: I underwent fusion surgery on my fourth and fifth vertebrae about six months ago. About a week after the surgery, I started to feel numbness in my right foot, and this condition has not improved since the...
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
It is recommended to follow up with a neurosurgeon for further examination in order to address your concerns. Wishing you well, Dr. Zheng.[Read More] Post-Surgery Leg Cramps: Understanding Symptoms After Spinal Fusion
Understanding Axillary Hyperhidrosis: Neurosurgery vs. Plastic Surgery Approaches
Axillary hyperhidrosis Hello, Doctor: In the department introductions of some hospitals, I see that both neurosurgery and plastic surgery list the treatment of "hyperhidrosis" (axillary sweating). Are the approaches of neurosurgery and plastic surgery the same? Is surgi...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Ah Xiang, Hello. The approaches of neurosurgery and plastic surgery are different. Neurosurgery involves endoscopic sympathectomy through the thoracic cavity, primarily targeting palmar hyperhidrosis. The success rate for controlling axillary sweating is lower than that for...[Read More] Understanding Axillary Hyperhidrosis: Neurosurgery vs. Plastic Surgery Approaches
Understanding Vertebral Artery Type Cervical Spondylosis Treatment in Neurosurgery
Cervical spondylosis In the treatment of cervical spondylosis with vertebral artery involvement, neurosurgical approaches may include decompression surgery or fusion procedures. The effectiveness of these treatments can vary based on the severity of the condition and the specific...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: The question you are asking is too broad. I recommend that you visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed explanation and treatment from a specialist. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery.[Read More] Understanding Vertebral Artery Type Cervical Spondylosis Treatment in Neurosurgery
Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgery Risks and Recovery Insights
Herniated disc Hello Dr. Chiu, In 2002, I experienced lower back pain and pain in my right thigh. I underwent an MRI, which revealed a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level that was compressing a nerve. After undergoing rehabilitation (including heat therapy, electrical stimulation,...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If there is a clear diagnosis of a herniated intervertebral disc confirmed by MRI, surgical treatment is usually the best option. Generally, a microsurgical approach is used, with an incision of about 3-4 centimeters and only one incision. Patients can typically be dischar...[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Surgery Risks and Recovery Insights
Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms: Hydrocephalus in Elderly Patients
Hydrocephalus Hello: My father is 68 years old (he has diabetes) and recently underwent a CT scan which revealed hydrocephalus. He had surgery on March 4, and his condition was stable post-operation, although he experienced some dizziness. However, on March 14, the dizziness wors...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello: For hydrocephalus, we utilize drainage surgery to alleviate symptoms. There are many reasons for postoperative dizziness. It is recommended that you return for a follow-up consultation with your father's attending physician. Sincerely, Dr. Ding Hsien-Wei, Neurosurgery...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms: Hydrocephalus in Elderly Patients
Understanding Palmar Hyperhidrosis and Sympathetic Nervous System Differences
Inquiry about "palmar hyperhidrosis" and "sympathetic nervous system" (forwarded from the Director's mailbox)? Hello, I inquired about the differences between "palmar hyperhidrosis" and "sympathetic nervous system" on December 31. I wo...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Hello, I am a neurosurgeon. Since hyperhidrosis is within the specialty of neurosurgery, please allow me to provide you with an explanation. Palmar hyperhidrosis, commonly referred to as hand sweating, is characterized by excessive sweating of the palms, with some patients experi...[Read More] Understanding Palmar Hyperhidrosis and Sympathetic Nervous System Differences
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Lower back pain? Hello, I apologize for taking your time. I would like to ask you about a sudden onset of lower back pain I experienced a few days ago. Initially, it was just a simple ache in my lower back, but the next day I began to feel discomfort behind my knees, and later, t...
Dr. Xiao Furen Reply:
Sciatica is essentially a symptom that relies on clinical diagnosis. As for whether the cause is a herniated disc, it is certainly a possibility. The diagnostic tools commonly used are computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is also possible for sciatica ...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Is surgery always necessary for a herniated disc? One day, I suddenly experienced mild pain in my lower back, which made it difficult to exert myself while using the restroom and caused significant inconvenience during bowel movements. I took pain medication and muscle relaxants ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If a herniated disc is mild, physical therapy (rehabilitation) may be appropriate. However, as you mentioned, surgery seems necessary. Generally, the surgical options are: 1. Microsurgery 2. Endoscopic surgery, which typically involves incisions no larger than 3-4 centimet...[Read More] Do You Really Need Surgery for a Herniated Disc? Exploring Options
Pros and Cons of Sitting vs. Lying Position in Neurosurgery
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using sitting and supine positions in neurosurgical procedures? What are the advantages and disadvantages of using sitting and supine positions in neurosurgical procedures?
Dr. Chen Changmu Reply:
I don't quite understand the question you are asking. If it pertains to the surgical position, it is determined by the area of the body being operated on. For example, in cases of lumbar disc herniation, the prone position is used, while for frontal lobe tumors, the supine p...[Read More] Pros and Cons of Sitting vs. Lying Position in Neurosurgery
Understanding Brain Tumors: Surgery Success Rates and Risks
Brain tumor Dear Doctor, My father is 53 years old and has been diagnosed with a brain tumor for nearly a year. Since the diagnosis, the tumor has not grown, but the cerebral edema has worsened. His symptoms primarily include headaches, pulsatile tinnitus, tinnitus, unsteady gai...
Dr. Shao Guoning Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, meningiomas are, in very rare cases, benign tumors. In other words, they do not metastasize, and as long as they are completely surgically removed, they will not recur. Although meningiomas grow slowly, the brain is encased in the skull, leavi...[Read More] Understanding Brain Tumors: Surgery Success Rates and Risks