Lumbar Discectomy
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MRI showing a large disc herniation, before (left) and after (right) a lumbar microdiscectomy.
Lumbar Discectomy
A lumbar discectomy is a procedure done on the lower back (lumbar spine) to remove a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve.
The procedure usually involves an incision on the affected side of the spine. Dr. Kamath performs lumbar discectomy with a minimally invasive approach through a tube and using a microscope, which allows for a smaller incision and less injury to the muscles, as compared to a traditional open procedure.
A small window of bone is drilled away, allowing access to the compressed nerve and disc. The part of the disc that’s causing pressure on the nerve is carefully removed. The entire disc is not removed; only the part that is causing pressure on the nerve. The removed piece of disc does not need to be replaced with anything.
Most patients who have a lumbar discectomy have relief of their leg pain, and can go home the same day from surgery. Expectations and specifics about your case should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.