For millions suffering from lumbar disc herniation, the prospect of surgery often sparks anxiety. But when does this common spinal condition truly require surgical intervention? Dr. Liu Xiaoguang, Vice President of Peking University Health Science Center and President of Peking University International Hospital, offers crucial insights for patients navigating treatment decisions.
"Approximately 70% of cases respond well to conservative approaches like physical therapy and medication," explains Dr. Liu, a renowned spinal surgery expert. However, he identifies four specific scenarios where surgical intervention becomes imperative – including progressive nerve damage and failed long-term conservative treatment.
While the article avoids medical advice, Dr. Liu emphasizes the importance of personalized evaluation through advanced imaging and neurological assessments. The full analysis, including visual demonstrations of spinal anatomy, is available in the accompanying video presentation.
Video production credits: Zhang Jingwen (Executive Producer), Yang Sha (Producer), Guo Meiping (Directors), Zhu Yonggen (Videographer), Pei Zihan and Huang Ruiqi (Graphic Designers)
