Disc Herniation Flashcards
1
Q
Where do disc herniations most commonly occur?
A
95% occur in L4/L5 or L5/S1
L5/S1 most common
90%of patients improve in 3 months with non operative treatment
2
Q
What are the main differences between central and far lateral disc herniations in the lumbar and cervical spine?
A
Cervical affects same traversing root (e.g. C5/C6 would effect C6 nerve root)
Lumbar is dependent upon location; far lateral (foraminal) affects the upper nerve root (e.g. L4/L5 would be L4)
central or paracentral affect traversing nerve root (e.g. L4/L5 would be L5)
3
Q
What patient characteristics are associated with improved patient outcomes for surgical treatment of lumbar disc herniation?
A
Age > 41 years, absence of joint problems, and married status
