Microdiscectomy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that fixes back problems like disc herniation. Instead of using big cuts like in regular back surgery, doctors make a small cut—only 1 or 2 inches—to reach the problem areas in the spine.
Compared to regular back surgery, microdiscectomy has several benefits:
- Better view: Doctors can see the problem area more clearly.
- Less pain: You feel less pain after surgery.
- Shorter hospital stays: You don’t have to stay in the hospital as long.
- Smaller scars: The cuts are smaller, so the scars are, too.
Microdiscectomy surgery is often the best choice for fixing certain back problems caused by disc issues. It helps you recover faster and get back to your regular activities. Spine specialists at Summit Orthopedics in Minneapolis/St. Paul are skilled in microdiscectomy and can help you decide if it’s right for you.
Conditions Treated With Microdiscectomy
The spinal column, a stack of vertebrae, protects the delicate spinal cord and nerve roots. Between each vertebra are discs, which act as cushions and shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like center. These discs allow you to flex and move your spine, such as when you bend or twist your back.
Microdiscectomy can treat disc issues that cause back pain, stiffness and arm and leg weakness. Your doctor may recommend microdiscectomy if you have a herniated or slipped disc.
A herniated disc and a slipped disc are different names for the same condition, and you may hear your doctor call your condition either name. Regardless of which name is used, this injury happens when the disc’s tough outer layer gets a tear, and the soft inside part pushes out or leaks. This can cause debilitating back pain. Getting older and sudden injury are two causes of a herniated or slipped disc.
What Happens During Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy might use general anesthesia, so you are asleep during the surgery. Often, this is an outpatient surgery, which means you can go home the same day. However, depending on what’s wrong with your back, you might need to stay in the hospital for a few days as you start to recover.
After you’re asleep, your surgeon makes a small incision on your back. They then use imaging, like an X-ray, to get an accurate view of the damaged discs and confirm the area they are repairing. Your surgeon may or may not use a microscope to get an in-depth view of your spine. They repair the damaged areas of the disc and then close the incision. For most people, microdiscectomy surgery takes between 30 minutes and an hour.
Once you’re awake, you will be monitored for two or more hours. When you’re ready to return home, you’ll be given instructions to help you recover.
Microdiscectomy Recovery
Everyone heals differently. How you recover will depend on how healthy you are, your age and the type of spine problem you have. You should follow all your doctor’s instructions as you recover.
Pain Management
After microdiscectomy, your back may feel sore. Pain medicines can help reduce your discomfort. Let your care team know about any serious pain that prevents you from doing normal activities.
Rest
You may need to rest or take it easy for the first days or weeks after surgery. Getting back to activities too soon can slow down your recovery, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s plan.
Physical Therapy
If needed, physical therapy can help you recover quicker. It strengthens and increases flexibility in your back muscles. A physical therapist will teach you exercises, which you’ll continue to do at home.
Microdiscectomy at Summit Orthopedics
Summit Orthopedics surgeons are available at nearly 30 convenient locations across the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Our state-of-the-art, comprehensive orthopedic centers offer same-day appointments from a team of experts who offer the full scope of orthopedic care.
Find your Summit Orthopedics spine expert, request an appointment or call us at (651) 968-5201 to schedule a consultation.
