Microdiscectomy

About This Procedure

Microdiscectomy, or microdecompression surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by a herniated or ruptured disc. A minimally invasive approach offers a variety of benefits over traditional open spine surgery, including:

• Faster healing
• Less scarring and pain
• Less tissue damage
• Smaller incisions

During the procedure, your spine surgeon will remove areas of the ruptured disc pressing on the nerve tissue. In some cases, your surgeon may need to remove the entire disc and perform a spinal fusion, or laminectomy.

Microdiscectomy recovery can take up to six weeks, depending on your condition. If you work in an office, you may be able to return to work after two to four weeks. If your job requires heavy lifting or using heavy machinery, you may need to wait six to eight weeks.

If a spinal fusion is required, it may take up to six months or a year for the bones to heal, although you may be able to resume most daily activities. Your doctor will give you instructions for recovering at home. You may have rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, during your recovery.