Spine, Neurosurgery FAQ - Page 15

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Understanding the Cost of Neurosurgery for Spinal Cyst Removal

Surgical costs Hello Doctor: I went to the hospital and found out that I have a cyst near the last segment of my lower back spine. Could you please tell me approximately how much the surgery to remove it would cost?


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, 1. If it is a cyst, surgery may not be necessary; it depends on the condition, so please discuss it with your physician. 2. If surgical removal is required, it is generally covered by health insurance. However, if you wish to use other materials, it will depend on your con...

[Read More] Understanding the Cost of Neurosurgery for Spinal Cyst Removal


Can Cervical Traction Be Safely Performed After MVD Surgery?

Can traction therapy for the cervical spine be performed after MVD (Microvascular Decompression)? Hello Director Zhang, I apologize for the intrusion, but I have a question that only a senior physician can answer. I would appreciate your guidance: Last year, my elder experienced ...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
No, cervical traction cannot cause Teflon displacement.

[Read More] Can Cervical Traction Be Safely Performed After MVD Surgery?


Post-Surgery Sleep Issues: Navigating Complex Challenges After Spine Surgery

Postoperative sleep issues become complicated? I underwent spinal surgery for spondylolisthesis on February 25, 2016, and I couldn't sleep during my hospital stay. I had been taking sleeping pills for 10 years, but they no longer worked. After the surgery, my legs became num...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Discuss with the primary surgeon or other physicians whether a repeat surgery could improve the current lumbar spine issues!

[Read More] Post-Surgery Sleep Issues: Navigating Complex Challenges After Spine Surgery


Understanding Neurological Disorders: A Case Study of Sensory Loss in a Young Girl

Loss of sensation in the body? A 12-year-old girl experienced an unexplained fall down the stairs at the beginning of January this year, initially reporting only back pain. Two hours later, she began to feel numbness in her toes. After being taken to the emergency room, she was d...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
This case is complex, and Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital are already the best hospitals in the country. I'm not sure how to proceed with the treatment, I apologize!

[Read More] Understanding Neurological Disorders: A Case Study of Sensory Loss in a Young Girl


Understanding Torticollis: Treatment Options and Surgical Insights

Torticollis issue I first noticed my torticollis around elementary to middle school. It wasn't a problem when I was younger, but now that I'm in my senior year of high school, I've always wanted to seek treatment but haven't had the courage to do so. I don...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, general torticollis is often due to fibrosis of the neck muscles. If you are under 18 years old, it is recommended to first consult a pediatric surgeon (however, there are few specialists in this field, so you may need to search online for the nearest hospital). If there i...

[Read More] Understanding Torticollis: Treatment Options and Surgical Insights


Distinguishing Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis and Autonomic Dysfunction

How to differentiate sympathetic nervous system symptoms? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing numbness in my left hand for the past week or two, and I went to see a neurosurgeon. After some tests, I was diagnosed with "cervical spondylosis." However, I found an artic...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, 1. "Cervical spondylosis" can indeed lead to sympathetic nervous system issues. 2. If you are experiencing numbness in your left hand, and if cervical X-rays or MRI show nerve compression, it is likely a cervical spine issue. 3. However, if your symptoms are ...

[Read More] Distinguishing Symptoms of Cervical Spondylosis and Autonomic Dysfunction


Understanding Shoulder and Neck Stiffness: When to See a Specialist

Symptoms of shoulder and neck stiffness? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing sharp pain in my shoulder for several years. Later, I developed numbness in a patch of skin, and my neck became stiff and slightly swollen. The side of my face and my eyes feel weak. I initially thoug...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Yes, please consult neurosurgery.

[Read More] Understanding Shoulder and Neck Stiffness: When to See a Specialist


Understanding Disc Herniation: Addressing Weakness and Numbness in Legs

I would like to inquire about issues related to herniated discs and leg weakness? A few years ago, I experienced back numbness and went to a large hospital where I was diagnosed with a herniated disc. The doctor advised me to be cautious during daily activities and to undergo reh...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, you may be experiencing issues related to lumbar spine and sciatica, but it could also be other problems. It is advisable to seek a personal evaluation from a neurosurgeon. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospit...

[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Addressing Weakness and Numbness in Legs


Understanding Neck Pain and Numbness: When to See a Specialist

Numbness and tingling in the neck? Hello Dr. Lai, I have intermittent tingling and numbness in the left side of my neck, behind my ear, and at the back of my head. Sometimes my neck feels stiff and numb, but it tends to be less numb when I lie down. Could these symptoms be relate...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, it could be a cervical spine issue or another problem. It is advisable to seek medical attention. Wishing you a speedy recovery. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Chief of Spine Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.

[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain and Numbness: When to See a Specialist


How to Assess Past Spinal Injuries: Tests to Alleviate Your Concerns

What tests can I undergo to alleviate my concerns about a previous spinal injury? Hello, Doctor. I have a question I would like to ask you. Many years ago, when I was a child (I don't remember the exact time, perhaps around ten years ago), I was standing on a chair, and the ...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, to assess the situation, you can start with a basic X-ray. However, for advanced evaluation, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be necessary, although it might not meet the criteria for insurance coverage. Every injury leaves a trace, but after so many years, it shoul...

[Read More] How to Assess Past Spinal Injuries: Tests to Alleviate Your Concerns


Understanding Sacral Fractures: Recovery Time and Related Back Pain

Sacral fracture It has been almost three months since I fell while walking up the stairs in April, and I still haven't recovered. Sitting for long periods or lying down is very uncomfortable. The area of the sacral fracture is quite painful, and recently my lumbar spine has ...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, your condition requires an outpatient evaluation. It's not possible to provide recommendations in just a few sentences. Changhua Hospital cares about you. // Dr. Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine Neurosurgery.

[Read More] Understanding Sacral Fractures: Recovery Time and Related Back Pain


Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Lumbar spine issues I visited the doctor in April this year due to lower back pain. The doctor took X-rays and mentioned that there was an angular deformity in the bone, possibly from an old injury. I would like to ask if bones do not heal on their own after an injury that occurr...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The numbness in the left chest is unrelated to the back pain. Reducing heavy lifting, getting more rest, and engaging in rehabilitation should help improve the condition!

[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Spine Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments


Understanding Brain Injury Recovery: Key Questions and Treatment Options

Inquire about issues related to brain injury? Hello Doctor: Six days ago, I was involved in a car accident on my way to work and was sent to the hospital with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8. A CT scan revealed intracranial hemorrhage, and while my intracranial pressure is ...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. It could be diffuse axonal injury, and the likelihood of waking up is uncertain; there is a possibility of not waking up at all! 2. There is no medical evidence supporting the clinical efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy! 3. Essentially, we can only wait and should avoid inc...

[Read More] Understanding Brain Injury Recovery: Key Questions and Treatment Options


Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Herniated disc In 2014, I experienced pain in my lower back, buttocks, and the outer side of my thighs. An MRI revealed degeneration of the intervertebral discs at the L3-L4 levels, which was likely the cause. The doctor recommended physical therapy, but in January 2016, my sympt...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: According to what you mentioned, <...after being referred and researching, you can undergo minimally invasive lumbar disc surgery, which is scheduled for June 3...> Since you have already consulted with other physicians for surgery, you should first ask the original ...

[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options


Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Recovery and Symptoms Explained

Herniated disc In April 2015, an MRI indicated an L4-L5 disc herniation, with the L5 protrusion being approximately 2:1, significantly compressing the nerve. This has caused pain in the outer side of my left thigh and the outer side of my calf. At that time, the doctor suggested ...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, your condition needs to be explained from two perspectives: 1. Your <symptoms (and your self-perception)> have improved. Congratulations. 2. However, the herniated disc and nerve compression in your body will not <disappear> due to ...

[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Disc Herniation: Recovery and Symptoms Explained


Understanding Neck Strains: When to Seek Medical Advice and Its Effects

Neck sprain? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. I am the person who asked the question 106295. 1. In your response, you mentioned that if there is improvement, there is no need to seek medical attention. Currently, my situation is that I experience slight pain a...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello! 1. Improvement is a good thing. However, if you are still worried, it’s best to make an appointment with a doctor nearby! 2. Generally, there is no significant relationship between cervical spine nerves and sexual function. If you have issues with sexual function, you can ...

[Read More] Understanding Neck Strains: When to Seek Medical Advice and Its Effects


Chronic Lumbar Pain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Discomfort

Lumbar pain Hello Dr. Lai, I have a job that requires long hours of sitting. After two months of work, I began experiencing pain in my lumbar spine, and it has been over four months now. Since the onset of the pain, I have been undergoing rehabilitation treatment (electrotherapy,...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, as you mentioned: "After undergoing an MRI, the doctor said there is degeneration and slight bulging of the intervertebral discs at the L4-L5 levels, but no other issues were found. It is not yet at the stage where surgery is required. The doctor said I can only rely ...

[Read More] Chronic Lumbar Pain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Discomfort


Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery for Spondylolisthesis: Key Questions Answered

Spinal fusion surgery for spondylolisthesis? Hello Dr. Chang, I was recently diagnosed with spondylolisthesis at the fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae and need to undergo fusion surgery. Currently, I am experiencing significant pain in my left sciatic region, and after sitting fo...


Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
You can consult either an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon. It is recommended to bring your MRI to the outpatient clinic to discuss it with the physician!

[Read More] Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery for Spondylolisthesis: Key Questions Answered


Understanding Neck Strain: When to Seek Further Medical Advice

Neck sprain? Hello, Doctor. I would like to consult you about something. Two weeks ago, on a Sunday morning, when I just got up, my head was still resting on the pillow, and I propped myself up with my hands and elbows, similar to a horse stance, while my head was against the pil...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, "Currently, when I gently clench my right fist, I experience a slight sensation similar to having just had a cramp (a bit like weakness). My right foot also has this sensation, but it’s not that I can’t exert force; I can still apply stren...

[Read More] Understanding Neck Strain: When to Seek Further Medical Advice


Managing Disc Herniation: When to Consider Surgery or Alternative Treatments

Herniated disc Hello Dr. Lai: My current symptoms include left lower back pain, weakness in my left leg, and weakness in my toes, which sometimes feel numb. Since I am abroad, the doctors here have recommended physical therapy. I have been undergoing physical therapy for three mo...


Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: 1. Your description seems to indicate a lumbar spine issue causing sciatica. However, a detailed examination is still necessary, such as X-rays and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). 2. If physical therapy focusing on core muscle training is ineffective, you may consider lu...

[Read More] Managing Disc Herniation: When to Consider Surgery or Alternative Treatments


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