“HYBRID” TREATMENT FOR SPINAL DISC HERNIATION

After several years of conservative treatment at local hospitals, Mr. N.H.P., 54 years old, continued to suffer from persistent pain in the neck, lower back, and both legs. As the symptoms worsened and significantly impaired his ability to move, he turned to the Neurosurgery & Spine Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital in search of an advanced treatment option.

Upon examination, doctors identified multiple disc herniations in both the lumbar and cervical spine:

• Lumbar disc herniation at L4 – L5
• Cervical disc herniations at C3 – C4, C4 – C5, and C5 – C6

These herniated discs were compressing the spinal cord, posing a risk of permanent quadriplegia if left untreated. To restore function and prevent further neurological damage, the surgical team opted for a “hybrid” approach, combining two advanced techniques in one treatment session.

To address the patient’s complex condition, Dr. Do Anh Vu, MMed, Specialist Level II, and Dr. Duong Duc Anh, MMed from the Neurosurgery & Spine Department implemented a hybrid treatment strategy, combining two advanced surgical techniques in a single procedure.

The first technique used was radiofrequency nucleus ablation (lumbar discoplasty). This minimally invasive procedure was performed under local anesthesia. Two electrodes were inserted into the herniated lumbar disc and connected to a radiofrequency generator. The heat energy helped remodel and shrink the disc nucleus, thereby relieving pressure on surrounding structures and reducing lower back pain. This technique also supports faster recovery and preserves spinal stability.

Simultaneously, the surgical team performed artificial cervical disc replacement at three levels: C3 – C4, C4 – C5, and C5 – C6. In this procedure, the damaged discs were removed and replaced with synthetic implants designed to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots. This approach, widely adopted at leading spine centers globally, helps restore mobility, relieve pain and numbness, and maintain neck function.

Just one day after surgery, Mr. P. regained mobility and independence. The pain and numbness in his neck, back, arms, and legs completely subsided.

“For over two years, I sought treatment at several hospitals but found no relief”, shared Mr. P. “My condition kept getting worse, and I could no longer move freely. Fortunately, a friend recommended Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital. After just three days of hospitalization and treatment, I was pain-free and moving normally again. I’m truly grateful to Dr. Vu and the hospital staff for their excellent care”.

“Herniated discs in the cervical and lumbar spine are quite common, especially in older adults due to spinal degeneration”, explained Dr. Do Anh Vu, MMed, Specialist Level II. “If not diagnosed and treated early, these conditions can cause serious complications, including permanent neurological damage and disability”.

Dr. Vu further advised:

“Patients experiencing severe neck or back pain, or radiating numbness in the arms or legs, should promptly consult a neurosurgeon for proper evaluation. Early and appropriate treatment is key to preserving mobility and preventing complications”.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital

No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: 18006767

info@nih.com.vn

BRC: No. 0312088602, issued on December 14th, 2012 by the Department of Planning and Investment of Ho Chi Minh City. Medical Examination and Treatment License No. 230/BYT-GPHĐ, issued by the Ministry of Health.