Prof. Fatih Aydemir

A herniated disc is when the disc between the vertebrae bulges outward and puts pressure on the nerve root. It may cause pain in the lower back, but the main distinguishing feature is that the pain radiates to the leg.

In the majority of patients, complaints regress with non-surgical methods. During this period, pain treatment, physical therapy practices and exercise programs are used. After a certain period of follow-up, the course of the complaints is evaluated.

Surgery is recommended in certain situations: progressive loss of strength in the foot or leg, deterioration in urinary and stool control, or pain that persists despite appropriate treatment and limits daily life. The decision is not based on imaging alone, but on the evaluation of examination findings together with imaging.

Brain tumors occur in different types, benign and malignant. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the tumor: headache, seizure, loss of strength, speech or vision changes may be among the first findings.

Magnetic resonance imaging is the basic method in diagnosis. In most cases, the type of tumor becomes clear through pathological examination of the tissue taken. Surgery can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The aim is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving the surrounding brain tissue.

Depending on the type of tumor, radiotherapy or drug treatment may be considered after surgery. This decision is made through the combined evaluation of imaging, pathology, radiation oncology and medical oncology.

Spinal collapse fractures, which develop due to osteoporosis, are common causes of back and waist pain, especially in older ages. Some fractures can occur during daily movement without obvious trauma.

The first approach to treatment is usually pain control, short-term movement restriction and the use of a corset when necessary. Initiating or reviewing treatment for osteoporosis is an integral part of the process.

In cases where pain persists, administering bone cement to the fractured vertebra with a needle may be considered. While applying this method, the possibility of new fractures in adjacent vertebrae is also evaluated. Therefore, the decision is made based on the age of the fracture, the patient's bone density and general condition.