Microdiscectomy for Herniated Discs

A microdiscectomy is the gold standard surgical treatment for a herniated lumbar disc. It is a minimally invasive procedure performed using a surgical microscope to carefully remove the portion of the disc material that is compressing the spinal nerve root.

By removing only the herniated fragment and leaving the healthy portion of the disc intact, the procedure relieves the pressure on the nerve (which causes sciatica) while preserving the structural integrity and motion of the spine.

A microdiscectomy is typically recommended for patients who have severe, radiating leg pain (sciatica) caused by a confirmed herniated disc that has not improved after 6 weeks of conservative treatments like physical therapy and steroid injections.

Surgery may be recommended sooner if you are experiencing progressive neurological deficits, such as worsening leg weakness, foot drop, or loss of bowel or bladder control (a medical emergency known as cauda equina syndrome).

Most patients experience immediate relief from their leg pain following a microdiscectomy. However, it is normal to have some residual numbness or tingling as the nerve heals over time. You will have some surgical site pain in your lower back, which resolves over a few weeks.

You will be encouraged to walk the same day of surgery. You must avoid bending, lifting, and twisting (the "BLT" restrictions) for the first few weeks. Depending on your job, you may return to work in 1 to 4 weeks. Full recovery and return to athletic activities typically takes 6 to 12 weeks.

Preparation

You are positioned carefully, and general anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.

Incision & Access

A small incision (about 1 inch) is made in the lower back directly over the herniated disc.

Nerve Decompression

Using a surgical microscope, the nerve is gently moved aside, and the herniated disc fragment is removed.

Closure

The incision is closed with dissolving sutures and a small dressing is applied.

Recovery

You will wake up in the recovery room and typically go home the same day.