risks of surgery for lumbar herniated disc
like most surgeries, back surgery has some risks. risks include:
wound problems, including infection and hematoma (bad bruise): less than 1 to 2 out of 100 people who had surgery had an infection or some other wound problem.
nerve damage: about 1 to 3 out of 100 people who had surgery had nerve root injury or new or worsening nerve-related problems, such as weakness, numbness, or tingling.
having symptoms that don't get better, or having new symptoms in the future: about 4 to 10 out of 100 people who had surgery went on to have another surgery for a herniated disc.
current as of: july 17, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
