Houston, TX
A 27-year-old female asked:
Can a herniated disk at l5-s1 protruding centrally into the thecal sac affect a person's bowel movements?
2 doctor answers • 10 doctors weighed in
Dr. Ahmad M Hadiedanswered
Orthopedic Surgery 51 years experience
Yes: Be careful.
Qauda equine syndrome, a rare disorder affecting the bundle of nerve roots (cauda equina) at the lower (lumbar) end of the spinal cord, is a surgical emergency. If patients with cauda equina syndrome do not get fast treatment to relieve the pressure, it can result in permanent paralysis, impaired bladder and/or bowel control, loss of sexual sensation, and other problems.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Thomas Dowlinganswered
Orthopedic Spine Surgery 42 years experience
Yes it occurs in 1% : Of all herniated discs and it is called a cauda equina syndrome and it is a true surgical emergency with the best outcome with surgery done within the first 24 hours of symptoms with decreasing chances of recovery over time. It usually would involve both bowel & bladder control with numbness & tingling in those regions.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Feb 9, 2019
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