This minimally invasive procedure is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerve column caused by a herniated disc. The goal of the procedure is to decrease pain and allow you to regain normal movement and function.

A minimally invasive microdiscectomy is performed using a special microscope to view the disc and nerves. Using this microscope gives the surgeon a larger view, which, in turn, allows him to make a smaller incision. The smaller the incision, the less damage is made to surrounding tissue.

The Procedure

The goal of a microdiscectomy is to remove the disc material placing pressure on the nerves by the herniated disc. Since the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, you’ll be unconscious during the entire procedure.

With you are lying face down, your surgeon will make an incision directly over the affected disc. S/he will then remove the damaged tissue and close the incision with sutures. Patients are typically discharged the same day or the morning after an overnight stay in the hospital.