Neurosurgery for herniated disc protects mother and unborn child
Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health
New London, Conn.
(l) Sarah Cross, M.D., and (r) Jacky Yeung, M.D.
Photo Credit: Yale New Haven Health
An expectant mother needing spinal surgery was treated successfully thanks to skillful surgeons and outstanding coordination among clinical teams at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, Conn.
Sarah Howe experienced severe back pain during her first trimester of pregnancy, which left her unable to move or perform daily activities. An MRI revealed a large, herniated disc pressing on a spinal nerve, requiring urgent treatment. Traditional surgery posed risks to her unborn child, so she consulted a multidisciplinary team at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health. The team included neurosurgeon Jacky Yeung, M.D., and Sarah Cross, M.D., chair of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences. Yeung and Cross also are professors at Yale School of Medicine.
The medical team recommended awake endoscopic spine surgery, a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia. Yeung removed the herniated disc using a small incision and a camera, avoiding muscle damage and reducing risk to the unborn baby. Howe, then in her second trimester, remained conscious and communicative throughout the procedure.
The surgery provided immediate pain relief for Howe, who was discharged the same day and resumed walking. She later delivered a healthy baby boy. Benefits of this procedure include no opioid use, faster recovery and quicker return to normal life.
Yeung noted the complexity of treating a pregnant patient, ensuring both mom and baby stayed comfortable and safe. Cross lauded “outstanding” communication and coordination among surgical, anesthesiology, OB-GYN and nursing teams for contributing to a successful outcome.