Anterior Discectomy Recovery

An anterior discectomy is performed through the front of the throat to the cervical area of the spine. During surgery, the neck is slightly tilted back to push the vertebrae forward. A small incision is made, and the spongy material called the disc located between two vertebrae is removed. Often, a bone graft is placed between two vertebrae to promote a fusion of the bones. Patients requiring surgery have not found relief in other methods of treatment such as exercise and medication to relieve pain or prevent a loss of nerve function.

Instructions

• 1

  Post-operative surgical care and recovery may begin as soon as the patient is fully awake from anesthesia. While in the hospital room, the patient begins recovery by sitting on the edge of the bed. If that exercise is tolerated, the patient will stand and walk around in the room. The patient's vitals are monitored and pain management is addressed. Hip pain is common if bone has been taken for a graft.

• 2

  Discharge from the hospital can occur as early as the same day. A pain medication is prescribed for approximately two weeks. Discharge instructions include high-fiber diet taken with plenty of fluids to avoid constipation caused by the pain medication. Experiencing hoarseness, discomfort swallowing and sore throat are common symptoms after surgery. Expect them to last one to four weeks.

• 3

  Follow restrictions ordered by the doctor, such as not smoking. Smoking can hinder bone growth, affecting the healing time of the fusion. The Mayfield Clinic of Cincinnati, Ohio, suggests avoiding nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, that can cause bleeding, for at least six months after surgery. Do not sit for very long periods, bend the head down, or lift anything heavier than five pounds. Walking every day helps promote healing.

• 4

  Wear a cervical collar on when riding in a car or walking. The collar protects the neck from sudden movements while the bone graft heals. Expect complete recovery time to take four to six weeks. Neck stretches and exercises are suggested once healing takes place.

• 5

  Feeling neck pain during the recovery time is normal, but certain activities can cause recurrence. Avoid lifting improperly, weight gain, and smoking. Submit to a regular exercise program and keep good posture while sitting, walking, and sleeping.

• 6

  Symptoms to look for during recovery that need attention are; severe neck pain and numbness down an arm, a sore throat and hoarseness that does not subside. Infection in the incision is noticeable when pus is present, the wound is red, sore, and warm to the touch after five days.