What is Discectomy Level 1 Surgery?
A discectomy level 1 is an operation on the spine in the lower back - it's also known as a lumbar discectomy.
Its purpose is to remove a disc prolapse in one location on the spine and relieve pressure on the nerve roots that leave the spine and run down to form the nerves in your legs.
Self Pay Surgery Costs for Discectomy Level 1 in Australia
Discectomy Level 1 Surgery wait time in public hospitals in Australia
Public Wait time can be up to
The Public health system in Australia has a waiting period for Discectomy Surgeries - 90% of Patients waited this length of time for this procedure in the 2019/2020 calendar year.
Discectomy Level 1 Surgery video
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Who Is Discectomy Level 1 For?
A discectomy is for people who have a disc prolapse in their spine. The aim is to relieve the pressure on the nerve roots that leave the spine, so your spine and the nerves can recover.
Surgery is usually recommended when all reasonable conservative measures (pain medications, nerve sheath injections, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, pilates etc.) have failed.
In cases of significant instability or neurological problems, surgery may be the appropriate first option.
What are the benefits of a Discectomy Level 1?
A discectomy is used to treat intervertebral disc herniations which do not improve with conservative treatment. Once you have the operation, your symptoms should improve and this should help you to get back to your normal activities.
What happens During Surgery?
The surgery typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour. Your surgeon will make an incision in the center of your back, between the vertebrae. Using an operating microscope, they will create an opening in the ligament between the vertebrae to expose the nerve and the disc. Your surgeon will then carefully move the nerve aside and extract the disc.
How long will I stay in hospital?
You may be able to go home the day after surgery.
What is my recovery time?
You will be encouraged to start walking within a day or two. The general recommendation is to take one to two weeks leave from work to enable rest and recovery. Post surgery, it’s advised to take it very easy:
- Do not lift heavy objects
- Do not sit for long periods
- Do not bend or stretch excessively
You will need to attend a follow-up consultation with your surgeon to ensure you are recovering at the best possible rate, and you will be covered for physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises under this Self Pay Surgery Package. Typically, you will be able to resume normal life in 6 to 8 weeks.
Do you qualify for This Self Pay Procedure?
You are suitable for this surgery if:
- You are over 16 years of age
- You are not pregnant
- You do not require complex rehabilitation or have a chronic disease that would require immediate post-operative care in an intensive care unit
- You do not have sickle cell anaemia, renal failure or have had a cardiac arrest or cardiac intervention (e.g. insertions of stents) in the last six months
Payment Plans
If you’re looking for ways to pay for your surgery, there are options available with Self Pay Surgery. From using your own superannuation, to getting finance from one of our Pay Later payment providers, check our Payment Plans page for the details.
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