A pinched nerve is a condition in which spinal nerves are compressed due to narrowing of the spinal canal, disc protrusion, or structural changes in the spine. In the lower back (lumbar spine), the most commonly affected segments are L4-L5 and L3-L4.
A pinched nerve at L4-L5 typically causes severe lower back pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, calves, and even down to the ankles. Meanwhile, compression at L3-L4 may lead to lower back pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking. When more than one spinal segment is involved, the pain can become persistent and significantly interfere with daily activities.
This was the condition experienced by a patient who later underwent treatment for a pinched nerve at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital by dr. Christian Permana, Sp.BS, FTB, FINSS, FICS.
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Patient’s Complaint: Pain Radiating from the Lower Back to the Ankles
The patient reported experiencing pain almost constantly, with a strong radiating sensation from the lower back down to the ankles. The pain was described as severe, yet the patient endured it during daily activities.
The patient explained that pain medication was only taken when the pain became unbearable. If the pain was still tolerable, the patient chose not to take any medication. This condition persisted for quite some time and significantly affected the patient’s quality of life.
MRI Examination Results: Two Pinched Nerve Locations
Following further evaluation using MRI, dr. Christian Permana explained that two nerve compression sites were identified. The most severe compression was found at the L4-L5 segment, along with additional compression beginning at L3-L4.
These findings explained why the patient experienced widespread and persistent radiating pain, indicating the need for appropriate intervention to address the source of nerve compression.
Monoportal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression as a Minimally Invasive Solution
To treat this condition, dr. Christian Permana performed Monoportal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression. This technique is a minimally invasive spinal surgery procedure carried out using an endoscopic camera through a single access point (monoportal).
During the procedure, the surgeon makes a very small incision—less than 1 cm—to insert the endoscope and relieve pressure on the compressed nerve. With camera-assisted visualization, the procedure can be performed precisely while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Advantages of Monoportal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression
Compared to conventional open surgery, Monoportal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression offers several advantages, including:
- Very small surgical incision
- Lower risk of infection
- Minimal tissue damage
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Faster recovery time
With this technique, patients are often able to walk within one day after surgery. In certain cases, patients may even be discharged on the same day without the need for prolonged hospitalization.
Patient’s Experience After Surgery
The patient shared that prior to the procedure, dr. Christian Permana provided a detailed explanation of the surgical process, including the benefits of the procedure and the expected recovery. This clear explanation helped the patient feel calmer and more confident about undergoing surgery.
After the operation, the patient experienced a very significant improvement. The pain that previously felt like a tight band stretching from the ankles to the back gradually disappeared. The patient is now able to walk normally and carry out daily activities without pain.
The patient described the postoperative condition as extremely relieving and expressed feeling freed from the long-standing suffering.
Expert Pinched Nerve Treatment at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
The success of this Monoportal Endoscopic Lumbar Decompression procedure is inseparable from the experience and expertise of dr. Christian Permana, Sp.BS, FTB, FINSS, FICS, a neurosurgeon at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital. With a minimally invasive approach supported by modern technology, patients with pinched nerves now have access to safer, more effective, and more comfortable treatment options.
dr. Christian Permana’s Practice Schedule at Mandaya Puri Hospital
dr. Christian Permana, Sp.BS, FTB, FINSS, FICS is available for consultation at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital on:
- Tuesday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (WIB)
- Thursday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (WIB)
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (WIB)
- Saturday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (WIB)
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