Do You Need Fixation After Microscopic Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation?
excuse me? Is fixation necessary after removing some of the spinous process in microsurgery? The herniated material at L4, L5, and S1 needs to be cleared.
Dr. Zheng Zhong Reply:
Microsurgery theoretically does not compromise the stability of the spine, and fixation surgery should not be necessary. However, it is currently believed that to prevent recurrent herniation after microsurgery, combining it with a "dynamic stabilization system" such as...[Read More] Do You Need Fixation After Microscopic Surgery for Lumbar Disc Herniation?
Effective Treatments for Sciatic Nerve Pain: Affordable Solutions
Sciatic nerve How can sciatica be treated? Can you help me with some methods that don't require spending money?
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Yang, Sciatica is generally caused by nerve compression due to a herniated disc or complications from spinal stenosis. It is important to pay attention to posture and consider using a lumbar support for health maintenance. Treatment options may include physical therapy ...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Sciatic Nerve Pain: Affordable Solutions
Latest Advances in Treating Bone Spurs: Techniques and Success Rates
Inquire about the latest treatment techniques for bone spurs? I was diagnosed with a herniated disc in my lower back 22 years ago (in 1986). I experienced sharp pain radiating down my right thigh and calf. Over the years, I only felt soreness when my body was weak, and it general...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: It is best to have a physical examination at the outpatient clinic first, and then determine which type of examination is most suitable. Wishing you good health, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Latest Advances in Treating Bone Spurs: Techniques and Success Rates
Understanding Nerve Pain: When to Seek Specialized Care
Sour pain Hello, Doctor: I am an office worker who spends most of the day sitting at a computer and rarely exercises. My condition is that when I lie down to sleep, the front of my left thigh becomes sore to the point that I have trouble sleeping, but it feels fine during the day...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Please visit the neurology department for examination. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain: When to Seek Specialized Care
Choosing Between Traditional and Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery for Kids
Hernia Hello, my five-year-old daughter needs to undergo hernia surgery. The surgical method proposed is traditional high ligation and suturing, but I have found information online about laparoscopic surgery, which offers advantages such as smaller incisions, faster recovery, and...
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
Hello: The so-called laparoscopic surgery refers to minimally invasive surgery, which is generally applicable for adult hernia repair. Compared to traditional surgery, it has advantages such as smaller incisions, faster recovery, and fewer postoperative wound complications. It al...[Read More] Choosing Between Traditional and Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery for Kids
Hard Lump at Surgical Site Eight Days Post Appendectomy: What to Know
On the eighth day after appendectomy, there is a lump at the surgical site? Hello, I noticed that on the eighth day after my surgery, the area around the incision feels hard when I press on it. Does this mean that there might be a rupture or bleeding inside the wound causing the ...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello, Xiaoying: 1. Please don't worry. After appendectomy, the incision may feel hard. This is because, in addition to the superficial sutures, there is a thicker layer of sutures beneath the skin used to close the muscle layer, which can create a lump-like sensation. If ...[Read More] Hard Lump at Surgical Site Eight Days Post Appendectomy: What to Know
Understanding Persistent Left Leg Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Left foot numbness? Hello Dr. Chiu, I have been experiencing frequent numbness and tingling in my left leg, extending from my buttocks to my heel, particularly in the heel area. The symptoms worsen when I stand still for a few minutes or squat down to use the toilet, but I have n...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: 1. Inferior vena cava obstruction may cause the reported symptoms. 2. MRI is very accurate for intervertebral disc diseases and spinal cord disorders, and there should be no blind spots. 3. Please consult a psychiatrist regarding whether antidepressants can cause periphera...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Left Leg Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
The intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1 have herniated and have been surgically treated? Hello, Dr. Zhang. I have suffered from a car accident resulting in herniation of the intervertebral discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1, which severely affects my daily life. I have undergone rehabi...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Chen: Regarding your questions, my responses are as follows: 1. Both the fixation screws and the support frame are methods for stabilizing the spine; they simply have different developmental timelines, and there is no theoretical error in this. 2. It is not possible to deter...[Read More] Post-Surgery Pain and Complications from L4-L5, L5-S1 Disc Herniation
Should My 3-Year-Old's Scrotal Swelling Without Hernia Be Surgically Treated?
Should a 3-year-old child with scrotal swelling and no hernia undergo surgery? Hello Dr. Huang: My 3-year-old child has scrotal swelling without hernia. Should we proceed with surgery or continue to observe for natural resolution? If surgery is necessary, should we consult genera...
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
A 3-year-old child's scrotal swelling requires surgical removal and will not resolve on its own. It is recommended to consult a pediatric surgeon or pediatric urologist. General surgery and urology typically handle adult cases and may not be as familiar with pediatric surger...[Read More] Should My 3-Year-Old's Scrotal Swelling Without Hernia Be Surgically Treated?
Understanding Sudden Anal Pain During Sleep: Causes and Relief Tips
Experiencing anal pain during sleep? Hello, doctor. I have a question that I'm not sure fits this category. A few times while sleeping, I have suddenly experienced severe pain in my anus that wakes me up. It feels like I need to have a bowel movement (as if something is tryi...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Dear netizens: This situation is actually not too uncommon; most people have similar experiences. Generally, it is often caused by neuropathic pain. If the pain is severe, analgesics or anxiolytics can be taken. If it is bearable, it may not require immediate attention. However, ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Anal Pain During Sleep: Causes and Relief Tips
Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Strained my lower back? Due to lifting heavy specimens during experiments, I experienced soreness after returning home. Then, while doing laundry, I suddenly stood up and felt a sharp pain, making it difficult to stand straight. About a month later, I went hiking on Yushan, and n...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it seems like you may have a herniated disc. It is advisable to schedule a further examination at the outpatient clinic (neurosurgery). Best wishes, Dr. Chiu Yu-Shu.[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to See a Specialist
Can Cervical Disc Herniation Cause Finger Weakness? Understanding the Connection
Can a herniated cervical disc cause weakness in the fingers? Recently, I have been experiencing shoulder and back muscle pain due to frequent neck stiffness, which has affected my daily life. After visiting a rehabilitation specialist and undergoing X-rays, the doctor informed me...
Dr. Zhang Yuanyi Reply:
Dear Hunter, It is possible that a cervical disc herniation could cause pain in the shoulders, neck, and upper limbs, or issues with sensation and strength in the upper extremities. However, the weakness in your right hand fingers also needs to be evaluated for potential periphe...[Read More] Can Cervical Disc Herniation Cause Finger Weakness? Understanding the Connection
Understanding the Difference: Hernia or Tumor in the Abdomen?
Is it a hernia or a tumor? Hello doctor, I have a lump in the lower right side of my abdomen (close to where it connects to my thigh). The article mentioned that "the typical symptom of a hernia is the appearance of a bulge in the groin area when standing or straining, such ...
Dr. Zhuang Renbin Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on your symptoms, it seems less likely that you are experiencing an inguinal hernia. However, in females, diagnosing a femoral hernia often requires a physical examination. Additionally, subcutaneous tumors or lymphadenopathy also necessitate a physical exa...[Read More] Understanding the Difference: Hernia or Tumor in the Abdomen?
Understanding Ankle Mobility Issues: Nerve Damage and Diagnosis Confusion
I am unable to dorsiflex my left ankle! Hello Dr. Ding, On July 1st of this year, due to work requirements, I sat on a very low stool with my legs positioned backward on either side of the stool, causing my calves to touch my thighs. I maintained this position for an entire day ...
Dr. Ding Xianwei Reply:
Dear Feng: Based on the information you provided, it seems more likely to be a peripheral nerve issue; however, there may also be a concurrent problem with a herniated disc compressing the nerve. Since I have not personally examined you, I cannot make any definitive judgments. I ...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Mobility Issues: Nerve Damage and Diagnosis Confusion
Understanding Abdominal Pain: What Could Be Causing My Father's Symptoms?
Could you please consult Dr. Ko? Hello Dr. Ke: I apologize for bothering you again, but I have another question to ask. My father has a small, swollen area on the right side of his abdomen, near the navel, and he reports that this swollen area is particularly painful. I am unsure...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, if the lump disappears or becomes softer when your father is lying flat, it may be a postoperative abdominal wall hernia. An abdominal wall hernia is caused by poor healing of the fascial layer after abdominal surgery. If it is not very painfu...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: What Could Be Causing My Father's Symptoms?
Understanding Disc Herniation at C5-C6: Treatment Options and Concerns
Herniated disc (C5-C6) Hello, I would like to consult you about my colleague, a 32-year-old woman. Three months ago, she underwent an MRI and was diagnosed with a herniated disc at the C5-C6 level. Initially, she thought that physical therapy would suffice, but after three months...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If the MRI examination confirms it, surgery is recommended. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Disc Herniation at C5-C6: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Sciatica Hello Dr. Chiu, I recently received your response regarding my sciatica issue, and the MRI images have also come out. My doctor mentioned that I do not have a herniated disc; however, there is a noticeably large cyst in the sacral area that is compressing the sciatic n...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Are you diagnosed with syringomyelia? Generally, it does not worsen. I believe you should trust your treating physician, as they have conducted examinations and should have the best understanding of your condition. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu Chiu.[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: Insights on Treatment and Cyst Management
Understanding Sciatica: When to Consider MRI and Surgical Options
Sciatica In January, I suddenly experienced strange pain (without any external force) that extended from my left lower back down to my left foot. I went to the hospital's neurology department for an electromyography (EMG) to confirm that there was compression on the sciatic ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: If physical therapy has been performed for four sessions without improvement in symptoms, it is recommended to undergo an MRI examination. If there is a clear indication of a herniated disc compressing a nerve, surgical treatment would be advisable. Best wishes, Dr. Yu-Shu...[Read More] Understanding Sciatica: When to Consider MRI and Surgical Options
Severe Neck Pain at Work: Understanding Disc Herniation and Treatment Options
Sudden severe stabbing pain in the neck while at work? Hello, I have been working as a delivery driver for a shipping company for two years. About a year ago, in August 2005, shortly after I joined the company (around 3-4 months in), I suddenly experienced severe neck pain while ...
Dr. Qiu Yushu Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is indeed a case of cervical disc herniation. If the imaging studies show significant symptoms, surgical treatment may be necessary. Whether this is classified as an occupational injury is something I cannot answer; it is not related to a spec...[Read More] Severe Neck Pain at Work: Understanding Disc Herniation and Treatment Options
Which Specialist to See for Knee Pain: Orthopedics or Vascular Surgery?
Should I see an orthopedic surgeon or a cardiovascular surgeon? My mother has recently been experiencing knee pain, but sometimes she feels it may be related to her leg veins, as the pain is not localized and seems to move around like it’s following the blood vessels. We consulte...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Dear Fiona, This is Dr. Hsu Kai-Hsi from the Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health, Executive Yuan. Based on the description in the article, there are at least two significant issues: severe bone degeneration (possibly osteoarthritis) and severe varicose veins, both of whi...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Knee Pain: Orthopedics or Vascular Surgery?