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CERVICAL DISK HERNIATION
Is There Difficulty Swallowing After Cervical Disk Herniation Surgery?
Whether there is difficulty swallowing after neck herniation surgery depends on several factors. The location of the surgery: some herniations are accessed from the back of the neck, in which case the swallowing difficulty associated with front-of-the-neck surgeries is not observed. The longer the surgery duration, the higher the risk of swallowing difficulty. The surgical technique and tools used: when accessed from the front of the neck, the esophagus is retracted to perform the surgery, which is a primary cause of swallowing difficulty. Intermittently relieving the esophagus, using appropriate retractors, and keeping the surgery duration short can reduce the likelihood of swallowing difficulty.
General Health Condition: Certain health issues, such as diabetes and obesity, can increase the risk of swallowing difficulty. Overweight patients may experience prolonged retraction to view the surgical site, increasing the likelihood of swallowing difficulty. Generally, swallowing difficulty decreases daily after surgery and usually returns to normal within 5-7 days.
When Can I Walk After Cervical Disk Herniation Surgery?
When you can walk after neck herniation surgery depends on the type of surgery, your post-surgery recovery rate, your personal health condition, and your doctor's recommendations.
Type of Surgery: Neck herniation surgeries can be performed using different techniques. Most patients are mobilized with a neck brace 4-6 hours after the surgery once the anesthesia wears off.
First Movements: During the first walk, dizziness may occur, so it should be done slowly and under the supervision of a doctor or nurse. The first walk is usually within the room, while subsequent walks can be in the corridor. After some time, walking without assistance becomes easier.
Recovery Speed: Every individual's recovery speed is different. Some people return to normal life quickly after surgery, while others may need more time.
Physical Therapy: Patients who decide on surgery after experiencing muscle weakness may need post-surgery physical therapy programs. Physical therapy helps strengthen the neck and arm muscles and regain mobility.
The post-surgery recovery process varies for each patient, so following your doctor's advice and guidance is crucial.
When Can I Be Discharged After Cervical Disk Herniation Surgery?
Most patients are discharged the day after neck herniation surgery. However, this period can be extended depending on the type of surgery and the patient's condition. Factors such as the patient's overall health, the presence of post-surgery complications, the type of surgery (open surgery or endoscopic surgery), and individual recovery speed can affect this period. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations and guidance during the post-surgery period.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A neck herniation (cervical disc herniation) occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the neck region become damaged and protrude into the spinal canal or nerve canal. This condition can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. In severe cases, weakness may extend to the legs, and advanced stages can result in walking difficulties and loss of bladder and bowel control.
Cervical disk herniation occurs when the spinal discs weaken due to aging, wear and tear, overuse, trauma, or poor posture. Factors that increase the risk of cervical disk herniation include smoking and maintaining a forward-leaning neck position for extended periods.
The symptoms of cervical disk herniation can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in the arms and hands
- Weakness in the arms and hands
- Headaches
- Increased pain during movement
To diagnose cervical disk herniation, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The doctor will review the patient's medical history, conduct a physical examination, and use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for neck herniation depends on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's condition. Common treatment methods include:
- Rest: Short periods of rest for the neck are recommended if the pain is severe.
- Neck Brace: May be used for no more than 5-7 days in some patients.
- Exercise and Physical Therapy: Physical therapy and neck-strengthening exercises are important in treating neck herniation.
- Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or muscle relaxants can be used.
- Epidural Steroid Injections: Can help alleviate pain.
- Surgical Intervention: If other treatment methods are ineffective or the condition is severe, surgery may be necessary.
The treatment process should always be managed by a specialist doctor.
To reduce the risk of cervical disk herniation, you can take the following precautions:
- Maintain proper posture and avoid keeping your neck in a forward-leaning position for long periods.
- Perform exercises that strengthen the neck muscles and increase flexibility.
- Do not smoke and maintain a healthy lifestyle.