Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spinal surgery to remove the portion of a herniated (slipped) disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve root, causing sciatica or arm/leg pain, numbness, or weakness. Using a surgical microscope through a small incision (2–3 cm), the surgeon removes only the herniated fragment of disc while preserving most of the disc and all surrounding structures. It is highly effective — over 90% of patients experience complete or near-complete relief of leg/arm pain.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
General anaesthesia is given; the patient is positioned face down.
- 2
A small incision (2–3 cm) is made over the affected disc level.
- 3
Muscles are gently moved aside using retractors — not cut.
- 4
Under microscope magnification, a small window is made in the spinal bone.
- 5
The herniated disc fragment pressing on the nerve root is carefully removed.
- 6
The nerve root is confirmed free of compression; the wound is closed.
✅ Benefits of Microdiscectomy
- ✓Rapid relief of sciatica (leg pain, numbness, or weakness) in over 90% of cases
- ✓Preserves most of the disc — low risk of spinal instability
- ✓Small incision, minimal muscle disruption
- ✓Short hospital stay of 1–2 days
- ✓Return to light work in 2–4 weeks
📋 How to Prepare
- MRI of the lumbar or cervical spine to confirm the level and side of herniation.
- Conservative treatment (physiotherapy, epidural injections) is usually tried for 6–12 weeks first.
- Surgery is recommended promptly if there is leg weakness or bowel/bladder symptoms.
- Pre-operative blood tests and anaesthesia assessment.
- Physiotherapy before surgery helps with post-operative recovery.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Dural tear (leak of spinal fluid) — managed with primary repair or bed rest
- Recurrent disc herniation — occurs in 5–10% over subsequent years
- Infection at the surgical site or disc space
- Nerve root injury — rare with experienced neurosurgeon
- Incomplete pain relief if the nerve has been compressed for a long time
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Walking is started the same day as surgery — the best thing for disc recovery.
- Avoid bending, lifting, or twisting for 6 weeks.
- Physiotherapy starts 2–4 weeks after surgery.
- Return to desk work in 2 weeks; physical work in 4–6 weeks.
- Long-term: maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and use correct lifting technique.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will my sciatica improve after microdiscectomy?
Leg pain typically improves dramatically within days to weeks of surgery. Numbness and weakness may take longer — 3–6 months — to fully resolve.
Do I need to wear a back brace after surgery?
Most patients do not need a brace. A lumbar support belt may be recommended for the first few weeks for certain activities, but prolonged brace use weakens back muscles.
🏥 Microdiscectomy at Iswarya Hospital
Trusted expertise and global-standard neurological care, covering both neurology and neurosurgery for a wide range of brain and spine conditions.
👨⚕️ Our Neurology Specialists
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Neurosurgery)
10+ Years Experience
✅ 99% Recommended
MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Neurology), PGDRM, FEBN, FNOH, FIHN
15+ years Experience
✅ 99% Recommendedℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.