A minimally invasive disc resection, or microdiscectomy, is a surgery designed to reduce the pressure created by a ruptured disc on the spinal cord. Unlike normal disc resection, the tiny surgery is performed through tiny openings, promoting an acceleration of recovery.
When is the procedure performed?
If you suffer from a herniated disc which causes symptoms such as weakness in the limbs, pain or loss of sensation in the back and limbs, a specialist may decide on this surgery for you. However, herniated discs are common for the general population and sometimes the recommendation for surgery will only be accepted after having unsuccessfully treated the condition with other modalities such as physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers.
If surgery is recommended, the benefits of the minimally invasive approach can be further discussed. For the most part, this approach allows for faster recovery with less pain after surgery, but it is not suitable for all cases.
The course of the surgery
The surgery is performed using an X-ray to identify the location of the vertebrae to operate. After creating a small incision in the back over the area of operation, the ruptured disc will be identified and the nerve on which it is pressing.
Using a camera, the surgeon can identify the various tissues and detach the parts of the disc which press on the nerves with the help of special tools that are suitable for this operation. The part of the disc which has not burst is left between the vertebrae in order for it to continue to function as the body's natural shock absorber.
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts about an hour, but it can take longer depending on the complexity of the case.
Preparation for surgery
Before the operation, an orthopedic specialist will thoroughly examine you, your medical file and other tests performed. In some cases, the surgeon may ask you to perform additional back imaging, such as a CT or MRI, in order to plan the surgery with the best approach for you.
Because the operation is performed under general anesthesia, an evaluation must be performed by an anesthesiologist before the operation. You should be in complete food fast mode as per the instructions of the medical staff.
Recovery after disc resection
The surgery is usually performed as part of a day hospitalization, so that you can be released home on the day of the surgery, after a few hours of rest and with the support of a family member or other companion.
After the operation, and in accordance with the recommendation of the surgeon, the lifting of heavy or any load should be limited and avoid bending the back. On occasion a back belt is required, but most patients can return to routine within a week or so. Sometimes, in the first days after surgery, the pain may worsen compared to the period before surgery, but this should improve and pain should subside.
Possible complications
Disc resection is considered a fairly safe procedure, especially when performed with a minimally invasive approach. However, as with any surgery, there are complications with this surgery. Possible complications include local infection or bleeding, leakage of cerebrospinal fluid or damage to the nerves and blood vessels adjacent to the area of surgery.
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