Overview
Lumbar microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat herniated discs in the lower spine that cause leg pain and sciatica. The procedure involves removing only the portion of the disc that is compressing the nerve, leaving the healthy disc material intact. This targeted approach differs from more extensive spinal surgery and offers several advantages including smaller incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and faster recovery times.
The surgery is performed through a small incision in the lower back, typically measuring less than two centimetres. Using specialised microscopic visualisation and surgical instruments, the surgeon carefully removes the herniated disc material that is pressing on the nerve root. This decompression relieves pain and other neurological symptoms whilst maintaining the structural integrity of the spine.
Lumbar microdiscectomy may be recommended when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, pain medication, and spinal injections have not provided adequate relief from leg pain and sciatica. The procedure is particularly effective for patients with specific disc herniations causing nerve compression and radicular symptoms.
Key Benefits
- Rapid relief from leg pain and sciatica symptoms
- Minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions and reduced tissue damage
- Faster recovery compared to traditional open spinal surgery
- Preservation of spinal stability and normal disc function
- Earlier return to work and normal activities
Procedure Steps
1
Positioning and Localisation of Herniated Disc Material
2
Small Incision Creation and Microscopic Visualisation Setup
3
Careful Removal of Herniated Disc Material Compressing Nerve Root
4
Nerve Root Decompression and Verification of Adequate Relief
5
Incision Closure with Minimal Suturing and Tissue Disruption
Recovery Timeline
- Same-day discharge or overnight stay depending on individual circumstances and surgeon recommendation
- First week: Rest and pain management with gradual mobilisation at home
- Weeks 2–4: Gradual increase in activity levels and light movement with activity restrictions
- Weeks 4–8: Progressive return to normal activities and work as tolerated
- Full recovery: Most patients achieve maximum benefit within 8–12 weeks
Potential Risks
- Infection at the surgical site or within the spinal canal
- Bleeding or haematoma formation requiring intervention
- Nerve damage resulting in persistent pain, numbness, or weakness
- Recurrent disc herniation at the same level requiring further treatment
- Dural tear (membrane surrounding the spinal cord) requiring repair
Quick Information
Duration
1–2 hours
Recovery Time
2–4 weeks
