CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT of a massive disc herniation, the long-term prognosis is very good (83%):
30/03/21
CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT of a massive disc herniation, the long-term prognosis is very good (83%):
- It is safe to adopt a ‘wait-and-watch’ policy for cases of massive disc herniation if there is any early sign of clinical improvement.
- Where clinical progress is evident, 83% of cases of massive disc herniation will have sustained improvement.
- Only 17% of cases will have recurring crises of back pain and sciatica.
- If there is evidence of clinical improvement, massive disc prolapses do not appear to carry a risk of major nerve damage or cauda equina syndrome.
- Massive disc herniations usually reduce in volume and by 6 months most are only a third of their original size.