Discectomy / Microdiscectomy

Intervertebral discs or simply the discs are the gel containing small sac between the bodies of the vertebrae. These act like cushions or chock absorbers. When the capsule is torn the disc bulges out or herniates from the rent. This herniated disc puts pressure on the spinal cord or irritates the nerves. Pain in lower back is due to tear in the disc capsule and pain radiating to legs and numbness is due to nerve compression and irritation.

Surgical removal of this troubling disc is called discectomy. Discectomy when done using a microscope is called Microdiscectomy. When it is done through a tube is called Endoscopic discectomy. Microdiscectomy & Endoscopic discectomy reduces the risk of major surgeries and recovery is faster. Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic discectomy patient can be discharged on the same day.

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FAQs

How long does it take to recover from a discectomy?

Complete recovery from a discectomy may take 2-3 weeks.

Is a discectomy major surgery?

Discectomy though is done through a small incision, it needs precision, hence a major surgery.

What is the success rate of a discectomy?

Success of a discectomy, Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic discectomy is more than 95% in the hands of a well trained and qualified spine surgeon.

What do they do in a discectomy?

Surgical removal of herniated or protruded disc from the spine to relive pressure on the nerves is done in discectomy.

How painful is a discectomy?

Discectomy surgery is generally done under general anaesthesia. Patients feel mild to moderate pain after surgery on the day of Discectomy. With proper analgesia pain rarely troubles a patient.

How dangerous is a discectomy?

Discectomy usually is a very safe surgery. Serious complications develop in less than 1% of patients.

How long are you out of work after a discectomy?

One can join desk work after 2-3 weeks from discectomy. A manual worker may need additional 1-2 weeks of rest.

How long do you stay in hospital after a discectomy?

Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic discectomy is small incision minimally invasive surgical techniques. A patient can be discharged the same evening of discectomy. Usually its not more than 2 days.

Does a discectomy weaken the back/spine?

Discectomy removes the offending disc and some part of the lamina. As in Laminectomy there is no significant loss in strength of spine.

When can I drive after discectomy?

After about 2 weeks of microdiscectomy one can drive a car.

Is the whole disc removed in a discectomy?

No only the offending part of the disc is removed in Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic discectomy.

What is the difference between discectomy, Microdiscectomy and Endoscopic discectomy?

Discectomy is removal of the entire or part of the herniated disc. Microdiscectomy uses magnification with help of a microscope. Endoscopic discectomy is done through a tube inserted in a hole in the back.

Do I need discectomy?

Someone suffering from a prolapsed or herniated disc and proper rest along with physiotherapy has not relieved pain, then discectomy should be considered.

Can I run after discectomy?

Running, jogging, weight lifting and other heavier activities should be deferred for 4-6 months after discectomy or microdiscectomy.

Why does my leg still hurt after Microdiscectomy?

At times pain radiating to the legs may continue even after surgery as damaged nerves may take up to months for full recovery.

Can disc herniation recur after discectomy?

Incomplete discectomy may cause persistence or relapse of symptoms. Herniation of disc at different level can cause recurrence.

What precautions should one take in herniated disc?

Forward bending, lifting heavy objects, picking things from floor, sitting cross-leg and squatting can aggravate herniated disc and must be avoided.

How is herniated disc diagnosed?

Physical examination of the patient along with the symptoms and history is enough to diagnose a herniated disc. MRI is needed to confirm the diagnosis.