The typical course of care for a herniated disc is to try conservative care such as physical therapy or chiropractic care, then consider epidural steroid injections, and then consider spinal surgery. No matter the treatment option, all medical providers have an ethical and legal obligation to ensure they are properly qualified to treat a patient. Unfortunately, we have seen some cases where an unqualified pain management doctor attempted to perform the surgery himself, without proper training, rather than referring the case to a qualified orthopedic or neurosurgeon. This is negligence.
If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries as a result of medical negligence during a back surgery or neck surgery performed by a medical provider whom you suspect did not meet the proper qualifications, call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. to discuss the potential for a medical malpractice claim today at (713) 932-0777.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc is a common injury to the soft material between the vertebrae in the spine that people may suffer due to many different types of injuries. Spinal discs act as padding between vertebrae and consist of a soft, gel-like center surrounded by an outer protective layer. If the disc is compressed, the center can push out towards the protective layer, resulting in a protrusion or bulge. If the outer layer is pierced and the center extrudes from the disc, this is a herniation.
Herniated discs can cause nerve root compression due to the extruded material and/or swelling of the soft tissue around the disc. When you suffer from nerve root compression, this can be extremely painful and even result in radiating pain along the nerve that is encroached by the disc.
Botched Discectomy Surgery
A discectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to provide relief from chronic pain caused by a herniated or bulging disc. It is a relatively routine procedure for a qualified surgeon. The procedure removes herniated disc material that is pressing on the nearby nerve. Unfortunately, some pain management doctors who are simply not qualified to do this procedure are doing it anyway. This can result in a serious surgical error and accidental damage to the nerve, tissues, or the protective sheath around the spine.
Who Typically Performs a Discectomy?
A licensed neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon can perform spine surgery. Before undergoing any serious surgery, you should always consult a properly trained medical professional. Spine surgeons seek specialized training to perform a discectomy, so make sure your doctor is properly qualified before surgery. A discectomy is a relatively common procedure; however, when performed negligently, the damage done can be permanently life-threatening.
What is Failed Back Surgery Syndrome?
Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) is a term used to describe a series of pain and symptoms one may develop if they have ineffective back surgery. Symptoms associated with a failed discectomy include:
- Back spasms
- New pain in a different location
- Numbness or pain radiating throughout the back into the legs
- Restricted mobility
Related Reading
- Houston Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer. Learn about the spinal injuries that precede disc surgery and how we can help with those too.
Call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C.
Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., provides free consultations to those injured due to another party’s negligence. Medical professionals who operate on individuals without the proper training are committing medical malpractice and should be held liable for the serious injuries associated with their actions. Call (713) 932-0777 to learn more about your rights.
