Alternative Names
Spinal microdiskectomy; Microdecompression
Definition of Microdiskectomy:
Spinal microdiskectomy is surgery to remove disk fragments from a herniated disk, usually in the lower back (lumbar area).
Unlike lumbar spine surgery that requires a surgical cut about 2 to 5 inches long, microdiskectomy is less invasive, and done using a very small surgical cut about about 1 to 1 ½ inches long.
Description:
Microdiskectomy is done in a hospital or outpatient surgical center while you are under local anesthesia (awake but pain-free) or general anesthesia (asleep and pain-free).
A special high-powered microscope magnifies the affected disk(s) and nerves, and guides the doctor during surgery.
The surgeon makes a small cut on your back and moves the back muscles away from the spine. After identifying and moving the nerve root, the surgeon removes the injured disk tissue and fragments. The back muscles are placed back into the normal position, and the wound is closed with stitches or staples.
Indications:
Spinal microdiskectomy is done to relieve nerve pain and pressure. It may be performed in patients with the following conditions:
- Cauda equina syndrome
- Herniated lumbar disk
- Leg pain or weakness (sciatica) caused by a herniated disk
It's important to note that patients with low back pain are usually treated conservatively before surgery is considered. Traction, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and exercise are often prescribed. Over time, many of the symptoms of low back pain will improve without surgery.
