Discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove a part of a herniated disc that is causing pain, weakness, or numbness by pushing on the spinal cord or nerve roots. As a major international hub for medical tourism, Thailand offers advanced medical facilities, world-renowned surgeons, and an enticing combination of high-quality healthcare services at affordable costs, making it an excellent choice for international patients seeking discectomy.
Please note that the prices provided are estimations and may vary based on various factors. Additionally, these prices do not include flights or accommodation.
All prices are in USD.
A discectomy is conducted to alleviate pain caused by a herniated disc that is pressing on spinal nerves. It is commonly recommended for patients who have not benefited from non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or medication. During the procedure, a portion or the entire problematic disc is removed, relieving pressure on the nerve. It's important for patients to understand that while discectomy can significantly reduce pain and discomfort, it may not alleviate all symptoms, and like any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.
Preparing for a discectomy involves various medical tests and examinations to ensure the patient is in good health for surgery. This may include imaging tests such as an MRI or a CT scan. Patients are also advised to stop smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and arrange for assistance at home following the surgery.
A discectomy is generally performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the back, over the area of the herniated disc. With the aid of special surgical tools and a microscope, the portion of the disc that's pressing on the nerves is carefully removed. The procedure typically lasts for about 1 to 2 hours.
After a discectomy, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days. It's normal to experience some pain following the surgery, but this should gradually improve over time. Physical therapy is often recommended to improve strength and flexibility. The full recovery period can vary, but most patients can return to their regular activities within 2 to 6 weeks.
The cost of a discectomy in Thailand is typically between $4,000 and $7,000, depending on the specific hospital and the individual case. Please note that these costs do not include travel and accommodation expenses.
MedPark Hospital is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility that opened in 2020. With a spacious 90,000 square meter building and over 30 departments, the hospital is equipped to handle a wide range of patient needs. It has 550 beds for inpatients and 300 examination rooms, all outfitted with advanced medical equipment to provide the highest quality of care.
Learn more →Bangkok Hospital was one of Thailand's first private hospitals when it was opened in 1972. It has since grown to one of the most well-known hospital networks in the Asia-Pacific area and is a popular destination for both Thais and foreigners for its medical services. Bangkok Hospital has 53 locations across Thailand of which 14 have JCI accreditation.
Learn more →Bumrungrad was founded in 1980 and is Southeast Asia's largest private hospital. It is one of the world's most popular medical tourism destinations, treating over 1.1 million patients annually of which many are overseas patients. Bumrungrad was the first hospital in Asia to receive JCI accreditation and has since received awards from numerous other agencies for its medical services.
Learn more →A discectomy in Thailand typically costs between $4,000 and $7,000, depending on the specific hospital and the individual case.
The full recovery period can vary, but most patients can return to their regular activities within 2 to 6 weeks following a discectomy.
You should ideally wait for at least a week to ten days before flying, but always consult your surgeon for personalized advice based on your condition.
You should plan for a stay of about 2-3 weeks in Thailand to allow for consultation, surgery, and initial recovery from a discectomy.