Lumbar Microdiscectomy

What Condition Does It Treat?

A lumbar Microdiscectomy is the gold standard procedure primarily used to treat specific conditions of the spine, particularly those affecting the lumbar (lower) region. The conditions it commonly addresses include: 

Lumbar Herniated Disc: When the inner gel-like core of a lumbar intervertebral disc (nucleus pulposus) protrudes through the outer fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus), it can compress nearby spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. This condition is often referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc.

Sciatica: This condition is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It is typically caused by a herniated disc compressing a nerve root.

Cauda Equina Syndrome: A rare but serious condition where a large disc herniation compresses the bundle of nerves at the end of the spinal cord (cauda equina). This can cause severe pain, numbness, and potential loss of bowel or bladder control, and is considered a medical emergency.

Radiculopathy: This term refers to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating from the spine into the extremities, usually due to nerve root compression. In the lumbar region, this often manifests as pain down the legs.

Recurrent Disc Herniation: In some cases, a previously herniated disc may herniate again after initial treatment. A lumbar microdiscectomy may be necessary if conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms.

Microdiscectomy Preoperative and Postoperative Care

If you are considering a microdiscectomy, here is a closer look at what to expect before and after the procedure.

Preoperative

Before your procedure, you will come into our office to consult your surgeon. They will walk you through the upcoming procedure and provide a list of pre-care instructions that can make the procedure and recovery much smoother, including:

• Showering or bathing before the procedure to ensure clean skin.
• Preparing for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
• Disclosing your medication list and health history.

Postoperative

Because minimally invasive procedures only require one to two small incisions, the recovery time following a microdiscectomy is much shorter than with open-back surgery.  During the first few weeks, avoid bending or slouching while sitting to allow your incision to heal properly. 

We also recommend physical therapy during this period for a quicker and safer recovery. You will learn exercises to improve your range of motion, strengthen your back and prevent further herniation.

As with most surgeries, the recovery period can vary from person to person. Generally, patients can begin moving normally after two to four weeks, with a full recovery after about eight weeks.