Hi David,
based on this statement under your MRI pics "Broad-based disc protrusion which extends into both exit foramina, with central superimposed extrusion measuring 19mm transverse x 11mm AP. Endplate degenerative changes with disc desiccation and height loss noted. A resulting moderate central canal stenosis and bilateral moderate to severe suprapedicular recess stenoses. Mild left foraminal stenosis.
It sounds like a decompression micro disectomy is in order for you.
You have only asked about a disectomy, so I have some questions for you.
Has a spinal surgeon suggested disectomy to you?
Has the spinal surgeon said anything about widening areas of the vertebrae in the L4/L5 , L5/S1?
Has a spinal surgeon discussed with you doing partial facetectomies, widening of the central foramen, the recess area of your L4/L5 as well as shaving of the disc in both the L4/L5, L5/S1?
Has the spinal surgeon discussed doing a laminotomy with all of these procedures being done or has he/she discussed laminectomy?
Laminotomy is the preferred choice today, but many spine surgeons do full laminectomies still and that is more of a risk to make the spine unstable.
Before knowing the answers to the above questions and more detail about what your spine surgeon has told you, it is hard to answer the questions.
I would venture to guess that at this point surgery is indicated and that any conservative measures will not help.
Depending on what the surgery actually is, will determine your length of recovery, but a good guess would be between 8-16 weeks to be fully back on your feet.
Fran
