Risks of Herniated Disc Surgery

Lumbar disc herniation occurs when the discs between the vertebrae protrude outward and press on the nerve roots, leading to severe lower back and leg pain. Although many patients improve with medication, physical therapy, and rest, surgical intervention may become necessary in certain cases. At this stage, one of the most frequently asked questions is: “What are the risks of herniated disc surgery?”

An experienced neurosurgeon, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, emphasizes that lumbar disc herniation surgeries generally have a high success rate. However, as with any surgical procedure, certain risks may exist. Understanding these risks helps patients develop realistic expectations before surgery and approach the treatment process more consciously.

Why Is Herniated Disc Surgery Performed?

The aim of herniated disc surgery is to remove the disc material that compresses the nerve root and relieve the pressure on the nerve. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that surgery may be necessary in the following situations:

• Persistent lower back and leg pain that significantly limits daily life
• Progressive muscle weakness in the legs
• Development of foot drop
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Symptoms that do not improve despite medication and physical therapy

These conditions indicate that the nerve tissue is under significant pressure and surgical planning may be required without delay.

How Are the Risks of Herniated Disc Surgery Classified?

The risks associated with lumbar disc surgery can generally be divided into two main categories:

• General surgical and anesthesia-related risks
• Risks specific to the spine and nervous system

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı highlights that with proper planning and modern microsurgical techniques, these risks remain at very low levels.

General Surgical and Anesthesia Risks

Anesthesia-Related Complications

As with any surgery, reactions related to anesthesia may occur during herniated disc surgery. These are usually temporary and carefully monitored by the anesthesia team. Detailed preoperative evaluations greatly reduce these risks.

Risk of Bleeding

Bleeding may occur in the surgical area. In most cases, it can be controlled during the operation and does not lead to permanent complications.

Risk of Infection

Although the infection risk in herniated disc surgery is low, it cannot be completely eliminated. Following sterilization protocols, appropriate antibiotic use, and proper wound care help minimize this risk. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı reminds patients to consult their physician if redness, discharge, or fever develops at the surgical site.

Risks Specific to Herniated Disc Surgery

Since the operation is performed in a delicate area where nerve roots are located, nerve injury may rarely occur. In such cases, the following symptoms may develop:

• Numbness
• Muscle weakness
• Permanent sensory changes

Thanks to experienced surgeons and microsurgical techniques, the risk is quite low. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that nerve protection is one of the most critical aspects of the surgery.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Leakage

A tear in the membrane surrounding the spinal cord may lead to cerebrospinal fluid leakage. This condition is usually repaired during surgery and often resolves with a few days of rest.

Recurrent Herniated Disc

After surgery, a disc herniation may recur at the same level. In medical literature, the recurrence rate is generally reported to be around 5–15%. Factors that may increase this risk include:

• Smoking
• Excess weight
• Heavy lifting habits
• Spinal degeneration

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that adopting spine-friendly lifestyle habits after surgery helps reduce the risk of recurrence.

Incomplete Relief (Residual Compression)

In rare cases, a small portion of the herniated disc material may remain or the nerve may not be fully decompressed. As a result, pain may not disappear completely and a second surgery may be required.

Chronic Pain

If the nerve remains compressed for a long time, nerve sensitivity may increase. Therefore, in some patients, pain may not completely disappear after surgery. Early diagnosis and timely surgery help reduce this risk.

Blood Clot Formation (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

Remaining immobile for long periods after surgery can lead to blood clots in the leg veins. For this reason, early mobilization is very important. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that preventive measures are applied in patients with higher risk.

In Which Patients Are the Risks Higher?

• Advanced age
• Diabetes patients
• Obesity
• Smokers
• Patients with heart or lung diseases
• Patients exposed to long-term nerve compression

Therefore, performing a patient-specific risk analysis is extremely important. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that each patient should be evaluated individually and the surgical decision should be made with a multidisciplinary approach.

How Can Risks Be Reduced Before Surgery?

• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining weight control
• Proper management of chronic diseases
• Following the doctor’s medication instructions
• Avoiding sudden and strenuous movements

These preparations improve both the safety of the surgery and the speed of recovery.

What Should Be Considered After Surgery?

It is normal to experience some back and leg pain during the first days after surgery. However, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı recommends immediate medical evaluation if any of the following symptoms occur:

• High fever
• Redness, discharge, or foul odor at the wound site
• Severe and increasing pain
• Sudden swelling and pain in the leg
• Difficulty urinating or urinary incontinence

Early intervention helps prevent complications from progressing.

Is Avoiding Surgery Safer?

An important fact is that not having surgery may also carry risks.

Especially in cases of:

• Progressive muscle weakness
• Foot drop
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe and unbearable pain

delaying surgery may lead to permanent nerve damage. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that the decision for surgery should consider not only surgical risks but also the consequences of leaving the condition untreated.

Factors That Increase Surgical Success

• Choosing an experienced surgeon
• Use of microsurgical techniques
• Early and controlled mobilization
• Regular exercise programs
• Weight control
• Quitting smoking
• Proper sitting and lifting habits

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı reminds patients that treatment does not end with surgery; rehabilitation, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments are essential parts of the recovery process.

Informed Decisions Lead to Safer Outcomes

Lumbar disc herniation surgery is an effective treatment that significantly improves quality of life by relieving pain and nerve compression when applied to the right patient group. However, rare risks such as nerve injury, infection, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and recurrence may occur.

Therefore, the decision for surgery should be made based on a personalized evaluation, detailed examination, and imaging results. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that with proper surgical planning and a conscious approach during the postoperative period, these risks can be minimized.