Spinal problems affect people across many age groups, and a herniated (slipped) disc is among the most common. The discs sit between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers protecting the bones. A herniation can occur anywhere along the spine — in the mid or lower back (the lumbar vertebrae) or in the neck.
Below we explain what a herniated disc is, its symptoms and causes, how it is treated, and what determines the cost of disc surgery in Egypt.
Herniated (slipped) disc
A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like material inside a disc protrudes through a tear in the disc, increasing pressure on the nerves or the spinal cord and producing the chronic symptoms patients describe.
Symptoms of a herniated disc
- If the herniation is in the lower back, pain is felt in the leg — and sometimes the arm — depending on the level involved
- Numbness or tingling, caused by the disc pressing on a nerve
- If the herniation is in the neck, severe pain is usually felt in the shoulder and arm
- Arm and leg pain that worsens with coughing, sneezing or certain positions
- Loss of sensation in some areas of the body
Causes of a herniated disc
- Inflammation and pressure on the nerves
- Lifting something incorrectly, or a sudden twist of the spine
- Obesity and excess weight
- Degeneration of the vertebrae with age or as a result of certain conditions
How a herniated disc is treated
Treatment begins with the least invasive options — relative rest, physiotherapy, activity modification and pain control. Surgery is reserved for cases that do not respond or where there is clear pressure on the nerves, and the decision rests with the treating doctor after assessment.
What determines the cost of disc surgery in Egypt
There is no single fixed figure. The cost varies with:
- The nature and severity of the case, and the techniques and materials used
- The surgical technique chosen, and the type and quality of the equipment involved
- The number of affected vertebrae and their location
- The type of anaesthesia and the length of hospital stay
- The investigations required before and after surgery
- The nature of the facility and the nursing team following the case
For this reason we provide a clear quote after assessing your case, rather than a headline number that may not apply to you.
Disc surgery at Town Hospital
Town Hospital in New Cairo offers an integrated pathway for spinal cases — specialist assessment, in-house imaging including MRI, spine surgery, intensive care and post-operative follow-up — with the aim of reaching the correct diagnosis first and choosing the least invasive effective option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cost of disc surgery a fixed figure?
No. The cost varies from case to case depending on the technique used, the number and location of the affected vertebrae, the type of anaesthesia, the length of stay, and the investigations required before and after surgery.
What exactly determines the cost?
Whether the treatment is conservative or surgical, the surgical technique, how complex the case is and whether other conditions are present, and the care and follow-up after the procedure.
Does every herniated disc need surgery?
No. Most cases improve with conservative treatment, physiotherapy and activity modification. Surgery is for cases that do not respond or where there is clear pressure on the nerves — and the doctor decides.
Is an MRI necessary before deciding on treatment?
In most cases an MRI shows the site and size of the herniation and its relationship to the nerves, which is essential for the right decision. The doctor determines the appropriate investigation for your case.
How do I find out the cost of my case?
After assessing your case we provide a clear quote. Contact us on WhatsApp or call 15276 to arrange an assessment appointment.
To book or ask a question: message us on WhatsApp or call the hotline 15276 — Town Hospital, Fifth Settlement, New Cairo.
Surgical consultation
If you need a surgical opinion on your case, you can book with Dr. Ahmed El Ghannam, Neurosurgery Consultant at Town Hospital — Fifth Settlement, New Cairo. To book or ask a question: WhatsApp or call 15276.