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An unusual finding in nerve root compression at L5 caused by herniated disc
C Milano1, M Mariconda, G Galdi
1Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia di Catanzaro, Clinica Ortopedica, Università di Reggio, Calabria.
Italian Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Severe lumbar disc herniation caused extensive, unrecognisable damage to the L5 nerve root. Histological confirmation revealed complete functional loss, making its removal inconsequential to patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Lumbar disc herniation is a common condition affecting spinal nerve roots.
- The L4-L5 level is a frequent site for disc herniation, potentially impacting the L5 nerve root.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old patient presented with severe, unrecognisable changes to the L5 nerve root.
- Macroscopic and microscopic examination revealed extensive pathological alterations.
Findings:
- Histological examination was required to confirm the identity of the severely damaged nerve root.
- The observed changes led to a complete loss of nerve root function.
- Surgical removal of the non-functional nerve root did not alter the neurological, clinical, or electromyographic status.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for extreme nerve root damage in lumbar disc herniation.
- Understanding the extent of nerve root pathology is crucial for surgical decision-making.
- Complete functional loss of a nerve root may not impact clinical outcomes if compensated or previously non-functional.