I've been told that even if I have a herniated disc removed, it can herniate again. How is that possible?

In the normal spine, there is a disc between each of the vertebral bones. This intervertebral disc separates, supports, and cushions the vertebral bones. Each disc is made up of two basic parts. There is a gel-like center called the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus is surrounded by a stronger fibrous structure called the annulus.

Fissures or cracks can occur in the outer covering. If the tear goes deep enough, the contents of the nucleus can seep out through the annulus. This condition is referred to as a herniated disc. Pressure from the protruding disc material on nearby spinal nerve roots can cause back and/or leg pain.

If conservative care does not help reduce pain and other symptoms, then surgery may be needed. A partial or total discectomy may be done. If the entire disc is removed, disc reherniation is not possible. The surgeon may replace it with an artificial disc replacement (ADR). If the patient is not a good candidate for an ADR, then a spinal fusion is an option.

Disc reherniation can occur when only a portion of the disc is removed. If only the torn fragments of the nucleus are taken out, then it's possible for the rest of the disc to herniate again. Sometimes the remaining disc protrudes in a different direction.

Disc reherniation isn't a common problem. Often there is a traumatic event that occurs before the patient notices new symptoms. This could be a car accident, twisting or bending injury, fall, or other event.