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Varan Haghshenas

Orthopedist | Orthopaedic Surgery of the Spine

Dr. Varan Haghshenas is an Orthopaedic Spine surgeon practicing in Houston, Texas. Dr. Haghshenas specializes in endoscopic discectomies and laminectomies which are the least invasive ways to perform these surgeries currently available in the world. These techniques allow patients to be relieved from nerve compression while suffering from the least possible amount of tissue damage which leads to the least possible amount of pain and faster return to regular activities. Dr. Haghshenas also specializes in spinal reconstruction and deformity correction. His goal is to use is extensive expertise in both the smallest and largest spine surgeries to create an individualized plan for each patient. 
Varan Haghshenas
  • Houston, Texas
  • Accepting new patients

Can a disc hernia cause leg pain?

Yes. If the disc herniation is pinching a nerve it can cause leg pain. This is a very common problem treated by spine surgeons,

level 2 fusion

There’s a variety of ways a 2 level fusion can be done and it depends on the surgeon’s preferred technique and the goals of the surgery such as deformity correction. In general READ MORE
There’s a variety of ways a 2 level fusion can be done and it depends on the surgeon’s preferred technique and the goals of the surgery such as deformity correction. In general a 2 level fusion will likely require at least a few days of inpatient stay. No a pain management doctor is not qualified to do any type of spinal fusion although it is being done unfortunately. Every surgical society has put out consensus statements against this practice.

Is surgery the only method to fix scoliosis?

Surgery for scoliosis in general depends on the size of the curve and the amount of growth remaining. Assuming you have a relatively large curve of greater than 50 degrees, surgery READ MORE
Surgery for scoliosis in general depends on the size of the curve and the amount of growth remaining. Assuming you have a relatively large curve of greater than 50 degrees, surgery is the only way to "fix" the curve on your xray however many patients with scoliosis can lead a very active and fulfilling life without surgery as long as their curve is balanced and remains stable over time and they maintain normal BMI and keep physically fit.

Can I walk after spine surgery?

I would discuss this with your surgeon. In general walking is highly encouraged after spine surgery to prevent blood clots and strengthen your muscles.

Can a disc hernia cause leg pain?

Yes I can help with this.

How long after discectomy can you go back to work?

Depends on the type of work you do. For office work generally 2-3 weeks as long as you're off pain medication.

Can you leave a normal life with a disc hernia?

Yes many people have disc herniations that they're not even aware of. The issue is when disc herniation push on nerves and cause symptoms.

Is surgery for scoliosis effective?

Yes it is. However surgery for scoliosis has many short term and long term risks. Make sure to fully discuss these with your surgeon and don't hesitate to get several opinions READ MORE
Yes it is. However surgery for scoliosis has many short term and long term risks. Make sure to fully discuss these with your surgeon and don't hesitate to get several opinions as this is a very big decision.

How long after disc hernia surgery can I drive a car?

You can generally drive after a few weeks as long as you're off pain medication.