Microdiscectomy Surgery

What is Microdiscectomy?

A Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery performed to relieve pressure on a spinal nerve caused by a herniated disc or slipped disc. This pressure often leads to leg pain (sciatica), numbness, or weakness.

Unlike traditional open surgery, a microdiscectomy is performed through a small incision with the help of a surgical microscope, allowing precise removal of the herniated disc fragment while preserving surrounding tissues.

Who Needs Microdiscectomy?

Microdiscectomy is recommended when:

  • Non-surgical treatments (medications, physiotherapy, rest) fail to relieve symptoms.

  • Back pain with leg pain(Sciatica) persists and affects daily life.

  • There is progressive weakness or numbness in the leg.

  • MRI confirms a lumbar disc herniation or slipped disc pressing on a nerve root.

Benefits of Microdiscectomy Surgery

  • Minimally invasive spine surgery with a smaller incision

  • Quick and lasting sciatica pain relief

  • Faster recovery compared to traditional surgery

  • Shorter hospital stay (usually 1–2 days) and early return to work

  • Early return to normal activities

  • Preservation of spine stability

How is the Surgery Performed?

  1. A small incision (about 2–3 cm) is made in the lower back.

  2. Using a surgical microscope, the surgeon carefully moves aside muscles and tissues.

  3. The herniated portion of the disc pressing on the nerve root is removed.

  4. The incision is closed with minimal sutures.

The entire slipped disc surgery usually takes about 1–2 hours, and most patients are discharged within 24–48 hours.

Recovery After Microdiscectomy

  • Patients are encouraged to walk on the same day or the next day after surgery.

  • Light work and daily activities can resume within 1–2 weeks.

  • Full recovery takes 4–6 weeks, depending on lifestyle and activity levels.

  • Physiotherapy and guided exercises help strengthen the back and prevent recurrence.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, microdiscectomy has potential risks, although complications are rare. These may include:

  • Infection

  • Bleeding

  • Nerve injury

  • Recurrence of disc herniation

  • Spinal fluid leak

An experienced spine surgeon minimizes these risks and ensures the best possible outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the success rate of microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy has a high success rate of 85–95% in relieving leg pain caused by disc herniation.

2. How long does it take to recover after surgery?
Most patients return to light activities within 2 weeks and resume normal activities in 4–6 weeks.

3. Will I need physiotherapy after the surgery?
Yes. Physiotherapy and back-strengthening exercises are important to ensure proper recovery and prevent recurrence.

4. Is microdiscectomy a permanent cure?
While microdiscectomy effectively relieves nerve compression, there is a small chance of another disc herniation at the same or a different level.

5. How do I know if I need microdiscectomy?
If you have persistent leg pain, numbness, or weakness from a confirmed lumbar disc herniation and conservative treatment hasn’t worked, microdiscectomy may be the best option.

Why Choose Us ?

As an experienced orthopaedic spine surgeon in Kandivali, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures, to help patients return to a pain-free and active lifestyle. Every treatment is tailored to your unique condition, ensuring the safest and most effective outcome.

Ready to take the next step?
Book your consultation today and find out if microdiscectomy surgery is the right treatment for your back pain and sciatica.