Ms. Liudmila arrived at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7 experiencing severe back pain, difficulty standing independently, and poor sleep. She had also gained significant weight due to pain medication side effects, currently weighing 92 kg with a body mass index (BMI) above 30, and had underlying diabetes.
MRI and X-ray results confirmed that the patient's herniated disc condition had worsened significantly. The herniated disc compressed the sciatic nerve root, causing intense pain in her back and radiating down her leg. This condition also led to significantly reduced muscle strength and severely impacted her mobility.
Dr. Vu Duc Thang, a spine specialist at the Orthopedic Trauma Center, stated that because the patient had undergone spinal surgery three times, the prognosis for success this time was only about 50%. The surgical site presented extensive fibrous adhesion tissue, causing nerves, blood vessels, soft tissues, and surrounding bone and disc structures to adhere, making observation and manipulation during surgery difficult.
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Dr. Thang (right) rigidifies Ms. Liudmila's spine. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
Dr. Thang utilized a microsurgical microscope system capable of magnifying the surgical field nearly 30 times. This allowed him to dissect inflamed nerve adhesions and remove the herniated disc mass. Subsequently, he fixed and rigidified the patient's spine with screws. This process was supported by a C-Arm, a continuous intraoperative X-ray system, ensuring precise maneuvers and screw placement.
On the fourth day after surgery, Ms. Liudmila recovered, able to walk independently, and was almost pain-free. After discharge, she entered the next phase of obesity treatment to prevent recurrence, reduce complication risks, and promote faster recovery. Exercises and a nutritional regimen during this phase also strengthen back and leg muscles, helping the patient improve mobility.
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Ms. Liudmila practices walking before discharge. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital
Spinal conditions such as spinal degeneration, ankylosing spondylitis, sciatica, herniated disc, and kyphosis commonly present with back pain and reduced mobility. Doctors recommend that upon noticing warning signs, patients seek examination at a specialized hospital to receive accurate early treatment, making it easier, reducing complication risks, and saving time and treatment costs.
By Phi Hong
