Advanced Spine Surgery for Lasting Pain Relief and Stability
Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion is a highly effective surgery designed to relieve lower back pain caused by a herniated or degenerated lumbar disc. By removing the damaged disc and stabilizing the spine with fusion, patients experience reduced nerve compression, restored mobility, and long-term spinal support. At Clínica Bíblica Hospital, patients benefit from world-class spine surgeons, advanced surgical technology, and a legacy of over 94 years of trusted healthcare in Costa Rica.
🩺 What Is a Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion (1 Level)?
A Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion is a two-part surgery performed on the lower spine:
✔️ Lumbar Discectomy – The damaged or herniated disc pressing on nerves is removed to relieve pain, numbness, or weakness.
✔️ Spinal Fusion – A bone graft or synthetic implant is inserted between the vertebrae, fusing them together for long-term stability.
This combination helps reduce nerve compression while preventing abnormal spinal movement at that level.
🩺 Types of Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion
Different approaches are available based on patient needs and surgeon expertise:
✔️ Traditional Open Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion – Standard approach with a larger incision for direct access.
✔️ Minimally Invasive Fusion (MIS) – Smaller incisions, less muscle disruption, and quicker recovery.
✔️ Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) – Fusion performed through the back of the spine.
✔️ Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) – Access through one side of the spine for less tissue disruption.
✔️ Fusion with Hardware – Screws, rods, or cages are placed for added stability during healing.
🩺 Who Is a Good Candidate?
A Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion may be recommended for patients who:
✅ Have persistent lower back pain from herniated or degenerative discs
✅ Experience leg pain, weakness, or numbness due to nerve compression (sciatica)
✅ Have spinal instability that risks worsening without intervention
✅ Do not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, or medication
✅ Are in overall good health to undergo anesthesia and recovery
🩺 Consultation & Preparation
A thorough pre-surgical process ensures the best outcomes. Patients typically undergo:
✔️ Complete medical history review and neurological exam
✔️ Imaging studies (MRI, CT, or X-rays) to locate the damaged disc
✔️ Pre-op lab tests and anesthesia evaluation
✔️ Guidance on stopping certain medications like blood thinners
✔️ Lifestyle recommendations, including smoking cessation and healthy weight management
✔️ Patient education about risks, benefits, and long-term recovery expectations
🩺 Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery after Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion is gradual and structured:
✔️ Hospital Stay – Most patients stay 1–2 nights for monitoring.
✔️ Initial Recovery – Pain management and guided mobilization within the first 24–48 hours.
✔️ Activity Restrictions – Avoid bending, lifting, or twisting for several weeks.
✔️ Rehabilitation – Physical therapy begins once the fusion starts healing, focusing on strength and flexibility.
✔️ Return to Work – Light activities usually resume in 4–6 weeks; full recovery can take 3–6 months.
✔️ Fusion Healing – Complete bone fusion may take 6–12 months, depending on the patient’s health and lifestyle.
🌟 Why Choose Clínica Bíblica Hospital for Lumbar Discectomy + Fusion?
With nearly a century of medical excellence, Clínica Bíblica Hospital is Costa Rica’s most trusted healthcare institution. Reasons patients choose it include:
- A compassionate approach rooted in more than 94 years of care
- Experienced neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine specialists
- Minimally invasive surgical options for faster recovery
- Advanced diagnostic imaging and modern operating suites
- International accreditations ensuring safety and quality
- Comprehensive rehabilitation and follow-up care
- All-inclusive packages for international patients, including transfers and accommodations
- Multilingual support staff for global visitors
- Affordable costs compared to North America and Europe
- Proven outcomes and high patient satisfaction rates
🩺 Surgical Package Inclusions & Exclusions
The Surgical Package Includes:
✔️ Hospital fees (surgery room, equipment, supplies, implants, medications, etc.)
✔️ Medical team fees: surgeon, assistant, and anesthesiologist
✔️ Preoperative testing: lab, X-rays, EKG, internal medicine evaluation
✔️ Pre-op consultation: consultation with an internist and surgeon
✔️ Basic post-operative protocol: antibiotics and pain management medication
✔️ Physical therapy sessions
✔️ Post-op consultation with the surgeon
✔️ Personal concierge services during stay in Costa Rica
✔️ Transportation (4 round trip transfers: airport/hotel/hospital)
The Surgical Package Excludes:
✅ Costs related to medical complications
✅ Extended hospital stays
✅ Blood transfusions
✅ Anticoagulant medications
✅ Additional tests or procedures not included in the initial package
