What are Discectomy and Microdiscectomy?
Discectomy is a procedure to remove all or part of the herniated spinal disc to
relieve pressure caused by compressed spinal cords and nerves. Microdiscectomy is
a minimally invasive surgery using a microscope to remove fragments from herniated
discs.
How is it done?
Microdiscectomy may be performed under a local anesthetic combined with intravenous
sedation, which means you would be awake during the surgery. A general anesthetic
may also be used. A small incision (about two inches) is made between the bones of the
vertebrae on the back. The surgeon will then move the back muscles to the side.
A flexible tube containing surgical implements and a high powered telescope is used
to perform surgery and guide the doctor as herniated disc tissue and fragments are
removed.
Why is it done?
Microdiscectomy surgery is performed to relieve leg pain or weakness (sciatica)
and nerve pain and pressure resulting from herniation of the intervertebral discs
which have placed pressure on surrounding nerves or have herniated into the spinal
canal.
Risks & complications
Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, as with any surgery, there
are risks, including the possibility of:
- Nerve root damage leading to a sensation of numbness, tingling or weakness in the
legs
- Tears to the protective coating around the nerves and spinal chord
- Re-herniation of the same disc
- Pain that persists or worsens after surgery
- Reaction to the anesthesia
Risks can be reduced by following the surgeon's instructions before and after surgery.
Alternatives
The surgeon may discuss alternative approaches to the microdiscectomy procedure
such as weight loss, medication to relieve pain, steroids, epidural (cortisone)
injections and physical therapy. Alternative surgical procedures may be recommended.
Candidate eligibility
Candidates for Microdiscectomy are patients with herniated discs causing irritation
to the nerves of the spine. The surgeon will make the final determination of each
patient’s eligibility for the procedure after an examination and consultation with
the patient.