What is a discectomy procedure?
Diskectomy is the surgical removal of the damaged portion of a herniated disk in the spine. A herniated disk occurs when some of the softer material inside the disk pushes out through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness or weakness.
What is the difference between a discectomy and a Microdiscectomy?
Discectomy and Microdiscectomy are terms that mean the surgical removal of part or an entire intervertebral disc. The difference between these terms is that microdiscectomy uses microscopic magnification. These procedures are performed to remove a herniated or ruptured disc.
Is a discectomy major surgery?
Discectomy is a common but major surgery with significant risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options.
Is discectomy an orthopedic surgery?
During a minimally invasive lumbar discectomy, an orthopedic surgeon takes out part of the damaged disc. This helps ease the pressure on the spinal cord. Your surgeon can use different methods to do this.
How long is discectomy surgery?
Traditional Microdiscectomy Surgery Step-By-Step A microdiscectomy is performed through the back, so the patient lies face down on the operating table for the surgery. General anesthesia is used, and the procedure usually takes about one to two hours.
How long is discectomy recovery?
The overall lumbar discectomy recovery time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks, but you may be feeling back to normal well before that time. Be sure to work closely with your doctor to understand how your specific lumbar discectomy recovery time should progress.
Is a discectomy a fusion?
This procedure may be performed anywhere along the spine, but it’s most often needed in the lower back or neck. When the entire disc is removed, a spinal fusion is necessary to stabilize the vertebrae affected by the discectomy. The fusion joins the bones on both sides of the removed disc so they form one bone.
How long is recovery from discectomy?