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What is a Discectomy?

A discectomy is a decompression procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerve roots caused by a herniated disc. When a disc herniates, its inner material pushes through a tear in the outer layer (the annulus), often irritating or compressing nearby nerves, which can result in pain, weakness, numbness, or other symptoms. In a microdiscectomy, a smaller incision is used, and a special tubular access port is inserted to remove the herniated portion of the disc. This procedure helps alleviate symptoms like sciatica by removing the offending material and alleviating pressure on the spinal nerves.

What Happens to the Hole Left in the Disc After Discectomy?

After a discectomy, a hole or tear is left in the annulus (the outer layer of the disc). Traditionally, surgeons have not closed this hole after the procedure, leaving the patient vulnerable to recurrent herniation. This can lead to pain and the need for revision surgery. The standard of care has typically been to allow the hole to scar over naturally, although smaller holes often heal by themselves. However, larger holes, especially those larger than a pencil eraser, have a significantly higher risk of reherniation and may require repair.

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Why is it Important to Close the Hole After a Discectomy?

When a disc herniates, the tear in the annulus allows the inner disc material to escape, causing pressure on nearby nerves and resulting in pain and dysfunction. While a discectomy alleviates this pressure by removing the herniated material, if the hole in the disc remains open, it can allow the material to bulge out again, resulting in a recurrence of the herniation.

Research shows that if a larger hole is left unaddressed, there’s more than a 27% chance of reherniation and the return of pain and symptoms. This can significantly increase the likelihood of needing additional surgeries, leading to a longer recovery time and prolonged discomfort. Closing the hole helps stabilize the disc and reduces the risk of further herniation, enhancing long-term outcomes.

What is Barricaid?

Barricaid is a small implant, just slightly larger than a pencil eraser, designed to close the larger holes left after a discectomy. Made of a titanium bone anchor and a polymer plug, Barricaid is carefully placed into the disc to seal the annular defect, effectively reconstructing the disc wall and helping prevent future herniation.

The titanium anchor secures the implant in place, and the polymer plug acts as a durable barrier, supporting the healing process and reducing the likelihood of reherniation. This innovative implant allows for a more effective repair compared to simply waiting for the hole to scar over on its own.

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How Does the Discectomy Post-Op Recovery Protocol Differ with Barricaid?

Patients who undergo the Barricaid procedure after their discectomy typically experience faster recovery times compared to those who have a discectomy without Barricaid. The Barricaid implant helps stabilize the disc, reducing the risk of reherniation and allowing for quicker return to normal activities. This is especially beneficial for patients who want to regain confidence in their bodies following surgery.

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, our patients who undergo the Barricaid procedure are enrolled in a recovery protocol that focuses on resistance training and core conditioning to build abdominal and lumbar strength. This recovery approach is designed to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, further enhancing the healing process and helping patients return to their daily activities sooner.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NJ for Your Annular Repair?

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we are dedicated to providing patients with the latest and most effective treatments for spine conditions. Here’s why you should consider us for your annular repair (disc repair):

  • Expert Spine Specialists: Dr. Michael Gerling is an expert in treating spinal conditions and ensuring the best outcomes for patients undergoing discectomy and disc repair.
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: We offer advanced solutions like Barricaid to ensure better long-term results and reduce the risk of reherniation after a discectomy.
  • Faster Recovery: Our recovery protocols are designed to help you get back to your routine faster and with less discomfort. Barricaid is a key factor in reducing recovery time and preventing further disc issues.
  • Comprehensive Care: From surgery to rehabilitation, we provide a full spectrum of care to help you achieve lasting relief and optimal spinal health.
  • Patient-Centered Approach: We tailor each treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your recovery is as smooth and effective as possible.

Schedule a Consultation for Annular Repair (Disc Repair)

If you’re considering discectomy surgery or you’ve had a discectomy and are concerned about the risk of reherniation, Gerling Spine Care NJ is here to help. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your condition, explain the benefits of the Barricaid procedure, and develop a personalized treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

Don’t let the risk of reherniation hold you back—contact us today to schedule a consultation for Annular Repair (Disc Repair) and take the first step toward lasting spinal health!

Our Locations

Gerling Spinecare & Research Institute consists of NY Orthopedics & Gerling Institute NJ. Two practices, one standard of excellence.

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Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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