{"id":"4a09f560-fe01-4425-87e6-3a6f02c8341f","slug":"spontaneous-and-rapid-resolution-of-a-massive-lumbar-disc-herniation","title":"Spontaneous and rapid resolution of a massive lumbar disc herniation","authors":["Dinesh Naidoo"],"abstract":"Background: Most lumbar disc herniations can be successfully treated conservatively. However, massive lumbar disc herniations are often treated surgically to avoid permanent cauda equina syndromes/neurological deficits and potential litigation. Nevertheless, here, we present a 51-year-old female who refused lumbar surgery due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and sustained a full spontaneous recovery without surgical intervention. Case Description: A 51-year-old female presented with a massive lumbar disc herniation at the L5S1 level. Despite refusing surgery for fear of getting COVID-19, she spontaneously neurologically improved without any residual neurological or radiographic sequelae. Conclusion: Although the vast majority of patients with massive lumbar disc herniations are managed surgically, there are rare instances in which nonoperative management may be successful.","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/4a09f560-fe01-4425-87e6-3a6f02c8341f/featured/hero-cropped-1781562200687.jpg","publishDate":"2021-07-19T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_491_2021","categories":["Spine","Case Report"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/10986/SNI-12-352.pdf"}