Hi. I have had two Kaiser opinions from the ortho spine clinic. Have deteriorated spine x 30 yrs. Last 10 months with two herniated bulging discs L5/s1. Suggested only foramenectomy (fusion) and one said from the back the other from the front. What is the difference? The front surgeon said it would save damage over time disrupting other discs I already have and may need fusion down the road.
Hi, thank you for providing the brief history of you. A thorough neuromuscular assessment is advised. Since you have herniated disc at L5 - S1 level, and you have been advised for surgery? I wonder if you have tried physical therapy. As it is non-invasive and can help recover if proper therapy is applied. Also, surgery is made to choice by surgeon is you have severe neurological symptoms of controlling the lower limbs during movement. In my clinical practice most patients don't need surgery and all recovered well almost 99% with physical therapy. Also, the area L5-S1 is a crucial area as it is a weight-bearing joint, so as u have the maximum mobility and weight-bearing at that area, dealing with a proper surgical procedure is needed. Depending upon how your muscles are before and after the surgery by the help of a physical therapy. Also, I had a case with 3 levels disc protrusion and an old fracture of 4 vertebrae, but surgery was not needed. With proper assessment and guided physical therapy patient responded well and surgery was never done till date. RegardsJay In Chat Doctor. 