When can you drive after neurosurgery?

After a lumbar microdiscectomy, most patients can drive short distances within a week, once they are off strong pain medication and can sit comfortably.

After an ACDF or other cervical spine surgery, driving usually resumes at two to three weeks — the limit is your ability to turn your head to check blind spots and to react quickly.

After a craniotomy, driving is restricted for a minimum of four weeks. If there have been any seizures — before or after surgery — the restriction is longer and driving cannot resume until you have been seizure-free for a defined period (usually at least six months for private driving).

For commercial drivers (heavy vehicles, professional drivers), the rules are stricter and I will discuss them with you individually.

The legal and insurance responsibility for driving lies with you. If in doubt, do not drive — a moment of inattention or a first seizure at the wheel can cause serious harm to yourself and others.