Spontaneous and rapid resolution of a massive lumbar disc herniation.

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.