Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery - Stenosis Micro-Decompression
Microdiscectomy, also referred to as microdecompression or microdiskectomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed on patients suffering from a herniated lumbar disc. This procedure removes portions of the herniated disc to relieve pressure on the spinal nerve column. Recovery after surgery is approximately six weeks.Sciatica
A microdiscectomy procedure can be highly effective at eliminating sciatica pain caused by disc herniation. Sciatica is a pain condition caused by compression of spinal nerves. Compression is frequently the result of a herniated lumbar disc. As the disc hernia gradually develops and damaged tissues extend into the spinal column, spinal nerves become compressed. Most cases of sciatica resolve without surgery in a few weeks. If the pain from sciatica persists longer than 12 weeks, a microdiscectomy may be the appropriate course of treatment.
Micro-Discectomy Procedure
A microdiscectomy will remove disc material that is compressing spinal nerves. The procedure is done under general anesthesia. You will be unconscious during the entire procedure and unable to feel anything. The procedure is performed with the patient lying face down. The process goes as follows:
1) A small incision is be made over the affected disc.
2) A microscope assists the surgeon in visualizing the affected area.
3) A small portion of bone that protects the root nerve may be removed.
4) The surgeon removes the damaged herniated tissue, alleviating pressure on the spinal nerve.
5) The incision is closed.
Discharge usually occurs the same day or in some cases the next morning after overnight observation.