Discectomy for a Spine Fracture: What to Expect

Like any fracture, spinal fractures are painful and can significantly impact mobility. Unfortunately, they’re becoming more common. In fact, spinal fractures increased by 37.7% between 1990 and 2019. 

The good news? Spinal fractures are treatable. Depending on the severity and location, surgical options such as spinal fusion or decompression surgery may be recommended to stabilize your spine and relieve pressure on affected nerves.

But when it affects the discs or nerves in your spine, it’s even more complicated. When a spinal fracture causes disc material to bulge or shift, this pressure can lead to intense pain, numbness, or even weakness in your arms or legs.

This is where discectomies come into the picture.

While discectomies are often done for herniated discs, they can also help treat certain types of spine fractures, especially when nerve compression is involved. 

Below, Dr. John Regan, a fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, explains signs you might benefit from a discectomy at Spine Group Beverly Hills and what you can expect before, during, and afterward. 

Learn more about discectomy for spine fractures

During a discectomy, Dr. Regan removes part or all of a damaged disc that is pressing on one of your spinal nerves. 

Not every fracture needs surgery, though.  Dr. Regan may recommend a discectomy if:

• The fracture has caused disc herniation 
• You experience severe or worsening nerve pain
• Non-surgical treatments (like rest, bracing, or injections) haven’t helped
• There’s a risk of spinal cord or nerve damage

Discectomy may be combined with spinal fusion or other procedures to stabilize your spine long-term.

What to expect before discectomy for a spine fracture

Before your discectomy, Dr. Regan orders imaging (MRI or CT scans) to precisely locate the problem area. He also reviews your health history and discusses any risks or concerns.

This surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, and in many cases, it’s performed using minimally invasive techniques to shorten your recovery time and reduce scarring.

What to expect during your discectomy

During the procedure, Dr. Regan makes a small incision over the affected area. Using advanced surgical tools, Dr. Regan carefully removes the damaged disc material that’s pressing on your nerves. 

In some cases, small pieces of bone or fragments from the fracture may also be removed.

What to expect after discectomy

In cases where a large portion of your disc is removed, there’s concern about spinal instability, or your spine is already compromised (e.g., due to a fracture), spinal fusion is often performed at the same time or shortly after discectomy. 

Fusion stabilizes your spine by permanently joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, rods, screws, or plates.

In other words, not every discectomy requires a fusion, but it’s common if spinal stability is at risk, especially after a spinal fracture.

Recovering after surgery

After  your surgery, you can expect:

• Mild soreness at the incision site
• A gradual return to walking and light activity in about two weeks
• Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
• Restrictions on bending, twisting, or lifting for a few weeks (about 6-12 weeks)

Many people report relief from nerve pain shortly after surgery, though full recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture. 

Find the right spine fracture treatment for you

At Spine Group Beverly Hills, Dr. John Regan combines decades of experience with advanced surgical techniques to deliver personalized, minimally invasive care. 

If you’re suffering from a spinal fracture (or need a second opinion), Dr. Regan can help you understand your options, including whether a discectomy is right for you.

Schedule your consultation online or call our Beverly Hills office at 424-238-3281.