A minimally invasive discectomy is a procedure that involves removing a herniated spinal disc to relieve pressure on your spinal cord. A herniated disc, also called a bulging or slipped disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a disc pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding wall, which impinges nerves within the spinal canal.
When an intervertebral disc becomes herniated, it may put pressure on a nerve root, leading to pain and a range of other symptoms. A discectomy can relieve this pressure and remove the disc causing pain.
How the Discectomy Procedure Works
A minimally invasive discectomy allows the surgeon to work through a small incision in the patient’s back or near their rib cage. Advanced navigation techniques allow the surgeon to remove the herniated disc and work through a smaller incision to decrease the risk of complications and speed up the patient’s recovery.
Recovery
Once the procedure is completed, most patients can expect to go home the same day. With a minimally invasive discectomy, most patients can return to work within two to four weeks. However, those with more physically demanding jobs may take longer to return.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Although a discectomy is an effective treatment method, not everyone with a herniated disc is a candidate for this procedure. Your healthcare provider will likely advise less invasive options first, such as:
- Rest
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
You may be a candidate for a minimally invasive discectomy if you have the following:
- Diagnostic tests that reveal a herniated disc
- Sciatica
- Weakness or numbness in your back, legs or arms
- Shooting pain in your legs or arms
- Difficulty walking
- Symptoms that have not improved with other treatments
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
To determine if this treatment is right for you, your doctor will perform a physical exam, take a detailed medical history, and order diagnostic studies. You will be an essential part of the decision-making process to ensure your treatment is ideal for your condition and lifestyle.
