Microdiscectomy Surgery

What is Microdiscectomy Surgery?

When conservative treatments do not provide long-lasting relief of arm or leg pain, surgical intervention may be considered. A microdiscectomy is a surgical treatment for disc herniation in either the neck or back. It relieves compression of the spinal cord or spinal nerve by removing the portion of the disc that is herniated or bulging beyond its usual boundaries. The most common condition where microdiscectomy surgery is considered are to relieve pain stemming from herniated, or bulging, discs in the spine when other, less invasive options have not worked.

What is a Microdiscectomy?

A mircodiscectomy (or discectomy involving the use of a special microscope for an enlarged view of the disc and nerves – thus allowing a more prescise incision) is a surgical procedure performed to treat pain that is caused by a prolapsed or herniated disc. It is the removal (hence the term ‘-ectomy’) of the intervertebral disc that causes compression or irritation to the adjacent nerve root. Microdiscectomy is considered the gold standard of all types of discectomy procedures.

Why Do I Need a Microdiscectomy?

Microdiscectomy is usually recommended to patients who experience chronic pain (caused by the prolapsed disc) that has not been alleviated by rest, medications, or injections. Surgeons also suggest this type of procedure to individuals who developed progressive neurological deficits or signs and symptoms like weakness, numbness and loss of sensation. Other conditions that may indicate the need for discectomy include:

• Immobility – as a result of pain or weakness
• Nerve damage – a condition that affects nerve function
• Cauda Equina syndrome – a serious condition that results from nerve impingement

How do you Prepare for a Microdiscectomy?

Microdiscectomy is an elective surgery, which means that it is subject to choice made by the patient and the surgeon and scheduled in advance. Prior to the procedure:

• The patient must understand and gather information about the procedure. If there are concerns or doubts about the procedure, a discussion should be made between the surgeon and the patient. All patient concerns and questions will be addressed and clarified.
• Blood and urine tests may be carried out to assess current patient’s health.
• Physical examination and assessment is done to rule out other conditions.
• Certain medications may be prescribed or stopped to prevent complications.
• The surgeon may also order diagnostic scans prior to the procedure.
• The patient should be placed on NPO (nothing by mouth) few hours before the surgery.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided several days before the surgery.

What are the Risks of Microdiscectomy Surgery?

Microdiscectomy is generally a safe surgical intervention. But as with any operation, there are potential risks or complications. These include the following:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Dural tear
• Recurrent disc herniation or prolapse
• Thromboembolic complications
• Scar tissue
• Back pain

What Happens After Microdiscectomy?

After the procedure, the patient will be monitored in the recovery room for few hours. If the patient remains without any complications, he or she will be transferred to his or her room.

When the anesthesia wears off, the patient will be started on a clear liquid diet before returning to a full solid diet, which usually occurs few days post-surgery. It will be ordered when normal bowel function returns.

Painkillers may be prescribed to alleviate post-operative pain and discomfort.

A physical therapist will be present to assist patient in exercises and movements to strengthen the body. After regaining adequate strength, the patient is usually discharged several days post-op, subject to regular follow-up and assessment during the recovery period.

What To Expect Before Surgery

Once you have decided to have a microdiscectomy, below is what you should expect before the surgery:

  • A medical examination.
  • Chest X-ray, EKG and blood work.
  • You may be asked to have a neurological or psychological examination.
  • If taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications daily, stop these medications at least one week before discectomy surgery.
  • If you take prescription medications or other drugs, including herbals, ask your doctor how soon before surgery you should stop taking these.
  • Do not have anything to eat or drink for 6 to 8 hours before discectomy surgery.
  • You will check into the hospital the morning of surgery.
  • Prior to surgery, you will be asked to sign permits for discectomy surgery, anesthesia, blood and blood products.

What To Expect During Surgery

  • An incision is made in the low back area.
  • Fluoroscopy (live X-ray) is used to determine the correct level(s) to be operated.
  • The disc tissue that is compressing the nerve(s) is removed.
  • Surgery takes approximately 1-2 hours.

What To Expect After Surgery

  • You will be in the recovery room from 1 to 1½ hours.
  • The surgeon will contact your family while you are in recovery.
  • After going to a hospital room, you will be able to use a PCA pump to get medication for pain control. This machine controls the amount of medication that can be received.
  • Staff will usually get you out of bed the same day as the surgery.
  • The hospital stay is usually one day.
  • A brace or corset may be prescribed to restrict bending.
  • You will be given any needed prescriptions and discharge instructions.
  • A set of exercises that you can do at home will be provided.
  • You will be able to ride in a car or plane upon leaving the hospital.
  • Physical therapy is usually initiated after the first office visit with your doctor following surgery.

Recovery from microdiscectomy is usually relatively brief, but it varies greatly among patients and is dependent on the age and health of the individual. Return to work also varies greatly among patients and is related to overall health and the type of work you do.

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