Surgery for Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation During Pregnancy: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) during pregnancy is uncommon.
• Symptomatic recurrent LDH during pregnancy is rarely reported.
• Surgical intervention for LDH during pregnancy is infrequently documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of recurrent LDH during pregnancy.
• To highlight the successful management of incapacitating sciatic pain in a pregnant patient.

Main Methods:

• A 32-year-old pregnant woman with recurrent right L4-L5 LDH underwent revision surgery.
• The procedure was performed under general anesthesia in the left lateral position to ensure fetal safety.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed recurrent disc herniation.

Main Results:

• Postoperative relief of radiating leg pain was complete.
• The patient delivered a healthy full-term infant via normal vaginal delivery.
• Recurrent LDH was successfully treated with revision surgery, maintaining the pregnancy.

Conclusions:

• Revision surgery can be a safe and effective option for recurrent LDH during pregnancy.
• Prompt surgical intervention may be necessary for incapacitating pain unresponsive to conservative management.
• Successful surgical outcomes for recurrent LDH can lead to favorable pregnancy and delivery results.