TREATMENT OVERVIEW
A discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord. When performed using a surgical microscope and minimally invasive techniques, it is called a "microdiscectomy." It is one of the most common and effective surgeries for relieving the debilitating leg pain known as sciatica.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
You will be under general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes a small incision (about 1-2 inches for a microdiscectomy) over the affected vertebra. The large back muscles are gently parted and held back with a retractor.
Using a surgical microscope for high-definition magnification, the surgeon visualizes the pinched nerve root. A tiny window of bone (a laminotomy) may be removed to create a clear path to the disc.
The surgeon then carefully removes the herniated portion of the disc, immediately freeing the nerve. Only the damaged fragment is removed, not the entire disc. The muscle and tissue are returned to place, and the incision is closed.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
A microdiscectomy is the "gold standard" for a reason—it directly addresses the mechanical problem causing the nerve pain.
This is the key benefit. The procedure physically removes the disc material that is compressing the nerve, providing a direct solution.
Many patients wake up from surgery and find their severe leg pain (sciatica) is immediately and significantly reduced or gone completely.
Microdiscectomy is one of the most reliable and successful procedures in spine surgery, with high patient satisfaction rates for relieving leg pain.
The "micro" technique uses a small incision and spares muscle, leading to less post-operative pain and a faster recovery than older "open" methods.
Unlike a fusion, this procedure removes only the problem fragment, preserving the natural motion and structure of your spinal segment.
By relieving the constant pressure, the procedure can stop progressive nerve damage, allowing the nerve to heal and function to return.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
A microdiscectomy is a very common and safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it has potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail.
Important: This procedure fixes the herniated fragment but not the underlying disc degeneration. Following post-op guidelines and physical therapy is key to preventing a future re-herniation.
PREPARATION GUIDE
Preparing for your discectomy is an important step toward a smooth recovery.
You will need pre-operative tests (blood work, EKG) and clearance from your primary care doctor for general anesthesia.
You must stop blood thinners (Aspirin, Plavix) and NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Aleve) 1-2 weeks before surgery as instructed.
Nicotine significantly impairs healing and increases infection risk. You must stop all nicotine use before surgery.
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you.
RECOVERY GUIDE
Recovery is focused on protecting your spine while it heals and gradually rebuilding strength.
You will be monitored as you wake up. A physical therapist will teach you how to safely get in/out of bed and walk before you are discharged.
Focus on walking and managing pain. You must follow strict "BLT" precautions: No Bending, Lifting (over 10 lbs), or Twisting.
Once cleared by your surgeon, you will begin physical therapy to learn core strengthening and proper body mechanics to protect your spine.
Most patients can return to desk work by 2-4 weeks and more physical activities by 3-6 months, once cleared by their surgeon.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.