Cauda Equina Syndrome Treatment in Schwerin

Urgent spinal decompression surgery is usually the treatment of choice for cauda equina syndrome. The most common form of surgery is called a lumbar laminectomy, which can be used to move a herniated disc back into its original position. A similar procedure, called a discectomy, may be performed to remove disc material or pieces of bone pressing on the cauda equina.

During spinal decompression surgeries, you will be given general anesthesia. Your surgeon will start the procedure by making an incision in the lower back at the site of the pressure. Then, the muscles, tissues, and protective lamina that surrounds the nerves will be moved aside to access the source of pressure. Your surgeon will then repair a herniated disc, remove a tumor, or repair a lesion to relieve the pressure. Once the procedure is complete, the incision will be closed with stitches.

Treatment for CES does not end with surgery. In most cases, you will need further treatment. The treatment options include:

• Medication is normally used for long-term treatment. The medication prescribed may include corticosteroids to reduce swellings, pain medication (such as ibuprofen) for pain management, and antibiotics if your CES is caused by an infection. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication for better bladder and bowel control, such as oxybutynin, tolterodine, and hyoscyamine.

• Radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be required after surgery if a tumor is responsible for your CES.

• Physical therapy is usually included as part of your treatment plan if CES impacted your ability to walk. A physical therapist can give you exercises to help improve your stride and help you regain your strength. If everyday activities, such as getting dressed, are affected by CES, an occupational therapist can also help you.

After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for four to five days. You should be able to leave Schwerin within 10 to 14 days if no further treatment is needed or if you choose to have it back at home. However, if you decided to undergo your whole treatment plan (radiotherapy or chemotherapy and physical therapy) in the country, you may need to stay a lot longer, depending on the schedule of your treatment. Make sure to talk to your medical team regarding this matter.

Recovery time after CES treatment can take a long time. Recover from the decompression surgery can take about four to six weeks. If your job does not require any physical activities, you may be able to return in four weeks. However, if your job is physically demanding, you may need four months before you can return to work.

It is important to remember that healing from the surgery itself is just one part of recovering from CES. For some people, it may take many months or even several years to fully recover.

During your recovery period, you will need to see your doctor periodically so they can check your progress. Your doctor will give you post-operative instructions that you will need to follow.

If you experience loss of bladder and bowel function, you may need to use a catheter to completely empty your bladder around three to four times a day. To prevent infection, drink plenty of fluids, and ensure good personal hygiene. To prevent leaks, you can wear protective pads and pants.

Emotional or psychological counseling may help you adjust to living with CES. The support of your family and friends is also important during your recovery. Therefore, talk to them and include them to help them understand what you are dealing with.

Since cauda equine syndrome is a medical emergency, there is no alternative to surgical decompression. If the condition is left untreated, you could develop permanent incontinence and become paralyzed.