Who Is This Procedure For?
A microdiscectomy is often recommended for individuals suffering from chronic or severe nerve pain due to a herniated disc in the spine—most commonly in the lumbar (lower) region. When disc material protrudes and presses on a spinal nerve, it can lead to persistent lower back pain that radiates down one or both legs (sciatica), tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs, feet, or buttocks, difficulty performing everyday tasks, and pain unresponsive to conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, or steroid injections. Patients with significant symptoms and mobility issues despite non-surgical interventions are prime candidates for microdiscectomy, which carefully removes the disc portion compressing the nerve to help restore an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Procedure Information
- •Smaller Incisions: Surgeons use a smaller incision compared to traditional open surgery, reducing tissue disruption and scarring.
- •Targeted Approach: Specialized surgical microscopes or endoscopes enable precise visualization, allowing removal of only the problematic disc portion while preserving healthy tissue.
- •Less Pain and Faster Recovery: The minimally invasive nature means many patients experience less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker returns to daily activities.
- •High Success Rate: The procedure has a proven track record of relieving sciatic leg pain and other nerve-related symptoms.
- •Pre-operative imaging such as MRIs or CT scans confirm the extent and location of the herniation, and the surgery is commonly performed under general anesthesia for a safe, comfortable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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