How Does a Microdiscectomy Fix a Herniated Disc?

Herniated discs go by many names: slipped discs, bulging discs, or even ruptured discs. Regardless of what you call it, disc herniation is painful! Whether you’re dealing with a spinal condition, 

If you have persistent symptoms that don’t respond to conservative treatments, a microdiscectomy may provide the relief you so desperately need. 

Here’s everything you need to know about microdiscectomy and disc herniation, courtesy of our team of experts at the Link Neuroscience Institute.

All about disc herniation

Before committing to a microdiscectomy, your first step is to confirm the source of your symptoms. 

Herniated discs can result from age-related wear-and-tear, injuries, or even improper lifting techniques. When they develop, the soft inner portion of your spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior shell. 

When the gel-like center protrudes out of the disc, it can press against nearby nerves and cause pain, weakness, and tingling. Depending on which disc is affected, you might feel these symptoms in your neck, arms, back, or legs. 

Your Link Neuroscience Institute can diagnose disc herniation through a physical exam, a review of your symptoms, and through your diagnostic images such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

What is microdiscectomy?

A microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on your nerve roots by removing the portion of the herniated disc that’s compressing the nerve. Unlike traditional open surgery, a microdiscectomy is minimally invasive.

If microdiscectomy is right for you, our team will provide you with specific preparation instructions, including pre-operative fasting instructions. 

On the day of your surgery, you can expect:

Preparation and anesthesia

You’ll be placed under general anesthesia for your surgery, so you’ll be asleep and won’t feel anything. You may feel groggy after having anesthesia, so you’ll also need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after your microdiscectomy. 

The process

A small incision — typically less than an inch long — is made near your affected disc. During minimally invasive surgery, your neurosurgeon in Ventura and Santa Barbara then inserts microscopic tools to precisely remove the problematic disc fragment with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.

Closing the incision

Once the disc fragment is removed, the incision is closed with a few stitches. The minimally invasive approach usually means less pain and faster recovery than open surgery.

Recovery

Full recovery may take a few weeks, but many people report feeling better shortly after surgery. Recovery after a microdiscectomy typically involves a period of physical rest followed by gradual rehabilitation. 

Physical therapy and gentle stretching exercises can help maintain flexibility, strengthen your back, and help you learn the best stretches for your back.

How microdiscectomy helps with pain

When it comes to microdiscectomy, our primary goal is to relieve pressure on your affected nerve. Removing the herniated portion of the disc decreases nerve irritation, which often leads to a significant reduction in pain, numbness, and tingling.

As the chronic pain dissipates, you might also experience a decrease in stress and anxiety — an important bit to mention since chronic pain can impact your mental health.

Is microdiscectomy right for you?

Surgery isn’t typically the first line of defense against back pain, but there’s a time and place for surgery. Microdiscectomy might be right for you if:

• You’ve already tried conservative methods with little to no relief
• You have nerve compression symptoms, including pain that radiates down your leg or arm, weakness, or difficulty with certain movements
• You’re free from contraindications such as active infections or vertebral fractures 
• You’re in good general health and cleared for surgery 

Don’t let a herniated disc zap your quality of life. Call the location of your choice to speak with our team and schedule your next appointment.