Microscopic discectomy is an advanced surgical procedure that relieves pain and muscle weakness associated with spinal nerve compression. The approach is often used to address symptoms associated with a herniated disc but may also be indicated in cases where bone spurs or other conditions are causing nerve impingement that is unresponsive to more conservative treatment approaches. During a microscopic discectomy (microdiscectomy), the herniated portion of an intervertebral disc is removed using minimally invasive techniques. This alleviates pressure on the spinal nerve root while leaving the rest of the disc intact.
At New Jersey Spine Institute, our award-winning surgical team most commonly performs microscopic discectomy procedures to resolve nerve compression in the lumbar spine (lower back). Though the approach may be used on any part of the spine, depending on the circumstances, it is often highly effective in treating pain and other symptoms associated with sciatica.
Using small cameras, proper illumination, and fluoroscopic guidance, our board-certified surgeons are able to precisely remove tissue and restore function to affected areas of the body. For many patients, a microscopic discectomy is life-changing.
To learn more about microscopic discectomy and other potential treatments that can help you address spinal nerve compression and regain quality of life, call our team at New Jersey Spine Institute to book an appointment. We look forward to putting you on the fastest road to recovery!
How a Microscopic Discectomy Is Performed
Like all surgeries at New Jersey Spine Institute, microscopic discectomy procedures are performed by our renowned spine surgery team. Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Vessa’s unique two-surgeon approach has helped thousands of patients experience shorter surgeries, better outcomes, and accelerated recovery times. You can be next!
A microscopic discectomy procedure involves the following steps:
- The patient is comfortably anesthetized lying face down.
- A small incision (1-1 ½” / 3-4 cm) is created in the skin of the back over the affected part of the spine.
- Muscles and tissues are gently moved aside to allow direct access to the spine.
- Depending on the circumstances, a laminectomy may be performed at this point in the surgery. A laminectomy involves removing a small portion of vertebral bone that covers the spinal canal (lamina) to make more room for the nerve root and increase access to the herniated disc.
- Instruments are precisely placed and the spinal nerves are gently moved aside.
- The herniated portion of the intervertebral disc is cleared away, leaving the rest of the disc in place.
- The instruments are gently removed and the incision is closed.
In general, a microscopic discectomy takes about 30-60 minutes. For specifics based on your particular circumstances and situation, speak directly with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons.
Benefits of Microscopic Discectomy
In cases where compressed spinal nerves are causing pain or other symptoms that are unresponsive to more conservative treatment methods, there can be numerous benefits to undergoing a microscopic discectomy procedure. These include:
Minimally Invasive Techniques
A minimally invasive microscopic discectomy procedure can help patients avoid potentially damaging muscle dissection and other complications.
Extremely Precise
At New Jersey Spine Institute, our two-surgeon team uses fluoroscopic guidance to ensure the highest level of precision and accuracy during microscopic discectomy procedures.
Rapid Recovery
Patients are able to begin rehabilitation and return to an active routine much more quickly than with a traditional open spine surgery approach.
Relief of Pain and Other Symptoms
Pain relief and the resolution of other symptoms are often almost immediate after a microscopic discectomy. The surgery can greatly improve mobility, activity levels, and overall quality of life!
What To Expect From a Microscopic Discectomy
At New Jersey Spine Institute, exceptional patient care is our number one priority and you can wholeheartedly trust that you will be supported by our world-class team every step along your spine surgery journey. From start to finish, we’ll be here to ensure that you are comfortable, informed, and able to achieve your health and mobility goals!
During the Procedure
During your microscopic discectomy procedure, you will be comfortably anesthetized. Afterwards, you will be attentively cared for until you are stable and able to be released to go home (usually about 2 hours after the surgery has concluded).
Recovery
After discharge, patients usually require about 2 weeks of rest as they heal from a microscopic discectomy. Pain medications may be prescribed during this healing period, depending on the circumstances.
If you have a sedentary job, you may be able to return to work after this point, but full recovery often takes closer to 6 weeks. Physical therapy is an essential component of recovery after microscopic discectomy and can usually begin approximately 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Am I a Good Candidate for Microscopic Discectomy?
You may be a good candidate for microscopic discectomy if:
- You are suffering from ongoing pain, muscle weakness, and/or other symptoms of spinal nerve compression that are affecting your overall quality of life.
- Your symptoms have been unresponsive to nonsurgical treatment options such as physical therapy and steroid injections.
- Leg pain (sciatica) is a primary symptom of your condition.
- Diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scans reveal disc herniation consistent with the symptoms you are experiencing.
- Your current health status allows you to safely undergo surgery at this point in time.
At New Jersey Spine Institute, our highly trained and experienced surgeons take a wide range of factors into consideration before recommending surgery as a treatment option. Every case is unique, and we are committed to understanding your needs and developing a personalized treatment plan to address them.
If a microscopic discectomy is being considered as a treatment option based on your symptoms and health goals, your surgeon will take all the time necessary to answer your questions and discuss the potential benefits and risks of the surgery’s outcomes with you. For more information, book an initial consultation at New Jersey Spine Institute today!
Potential Complications
Microscopic discectomy is considered to be a safe and effective treatment for herniated discs but, like any surgical treatment, it can involve potential risks and complications. These may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to surrounding tissues
- A tear to the dura (the tissue surrounding the spinal nerves)
- Pain or other symptoms that remain unresolved by the procedure
Our surgical team at New Jersey Spine Institute possesses a superior level of expertise in performing microscopic discectomies and a proven track record of excellent patient outcomes. We are always available to answer your questions and address your concerns at any point along your treatment journey.
Ready to learn more about microscopic discectomy surgery and other potential treatment options for herniated discs and spinal nerve root compression? The dedicated team at New Jersey Spine Institute looks forward to meeting with you and helping you move forward free of pain and other symptoms. Contact us today to book your initial consultation!
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