Discectomy (Lumbar, Thoracic or Cervical)
A discectomy is a common surgery performed to treat a slipped disc in the lumbar region. It involves the removal of a small amount of bone, joint and ligament to access and remove a slipped disc. During this procedure, the portion of the disc putting pressure on the nerve root is removed. In some cases, the entire disc may need to be removed.
Patients generally see an improvement within 3 months of a discectomy. Pain relief can be sometimes immediate or within to 6 weeks while numbness and muscle weakness may take longer to improve.
The surgery can be performed using different techniques, including:
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive approach using a small incision and a microscope to remove the damaged disc material with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Open Discectomy: A traditional approach with a larger incision, allowing more direct access to the affected disc.
Endoscopic Discectomy: A newer, even less invasive technique using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.
Recovery from a typical microdiscectomy can take up to 6 to 8 weeks following the operation. Physiotherapy is encouraged to restore mobility and strength.
A discectomy is a common surgery performed to treat a slipped disc in the lumbar region. It involves the removal of a small amount of bone, joint and ligament to access and remove a slipped disc. During this procedure, the portion of the disc putting pressure on the nerve root is removed. In some cases, the entire disc may need to be removed.
Patients generally see an improvement within 3 months of a discectomy. Pain relief can be sometimes immediate or within to 6 weeks while numbness and muscle weakness may take longer to improve.
The surgery can be performed using different techniques, including:
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive approach using a small incision and a microscope to remove the damaged disc material with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Open Discectomy: A traditional approach with a larger incision, allowing more direct access to the affected disc.
Endoscopic Discectomy: A newer, even less invasive technique using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.
Recovery from a typical microdiscectomy can take up to 6 to 8 weeks following the operation. Physiotherapy is encouraged to restore mobility and strength.
A discectomy is a common surgery performed to treat a slipped disc in the lumbar region. It involves the removal of a small amount of bone, joint and ligament to access and remove a slipped disc. During this procedure, the portion of the disc putting pressure on the nerve root is removed. In some cases, the entire disc may need to be removed.
Patients generally see an improvement within 3 months of a discectomy. Pain relief can be sometimes immediate or within to 6 weeks while numbness and muscle weakness may take longer to improve.
The surgery can be performed using different techniques, including:
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive approach using a small incision and a microscope to remove the damaged disc material with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Open Discectomy: A traditional approach with a larger incision, allowing more direct access to the affected disc.
Endoscopic Discectomy: A newer, even less invasive technique using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.
Recovery from a typical microdiscectomy can take up to 6 to 8 weeks following the operation. Physiotherapy is encouraged to restore mobility and strength.
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