Microdiscectomy

Why would I need a microdiscectomy?

Microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure that can relieve pressure on your spinal nerves. You may need a microdiscectomy if you have pain from a herniated disc that’s compressing nearby nerves in your lumbar (lower back) spine.

Your spine has protective discs that sit between your vertebrae and absorb the impact of your movements. As you get older, your discs can begin breaking down, and the soft, gel-like center can push out through the disc’s exterior. The center material can press on surrounding nerves and trigger episodic or persistent pain.

When you have a compressed nerve, you may also experience tingling, weakness, and numbness that affects your lower back. These symptoms, along with the pain, can also radiate down into your hips, legs, and feet.

A microdiscectomy can also relieve the shock-like pain common with sciatica. Sciatica occurs when a herniated disc or bone spur presses on your sciatic nerve, the large nerve that starts in your lower back and travels down through your hips and legs.

What happens during a microdiscectomy?

During a microdiscectomy, your Apex Spine and Neurosurgery surgeon makes a small incision in your lower back over the area of the herniated disc. They insert a special microscope in through the incision which provides your surgeon with a close-up view of the disc.

The surgeons use special surgical instruments that fit through the small incision to remove material from the disc that’s pressing on your nerves. They can also remove any broken off particles of the disc.

How long does it take to recover from a microdiscectomy?

Because the Apex Spine and Neurosurgery team uses minimally invasive techniques to complete your surgery, you can expect to heal faster than you might with traditional surgery.

After a few days of rest, your provider may recommend starting gentle exercises and physical therapy to promote healing and restore the mobility of your spine. You need to avoid strenuous activities and high-impact exercise for several weeks to protect the results of your surgery.

Within two to four weeks of surgery, you can expect to resume most of your usual activities. However, it can take six weeks or longer to achieve a full recovery.

To find out if you’re a candidate for a microdiscectomy, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at the Apex Spine and Neurosurgery office nearest you. Book your visit online or by phone today.