Endoscopic Discectomy

The surgeon may use an endoscopic approach which involves inserting a small camera through an incision near the spine while they operate through another small incision on the backside of the same area. This technique allows surgeons to see more clearly what they are doing inside the body without having too large of an incision made on either side.

Traditional Discectomy

Alternatively, some surgeons prefer using an open method which requires making one larger incision that is typically approximately one inch or larger in length.

These procedures are conducted and recommended if physical therapy or other initial medication regimens have failed to provide relief from the patient’s symptoms.

If you have a job and wonder when returning to work is possible, the answer to that depends on the motor control and strength you had prior to the surgery, as well as the physical exertion you must be capable of. If your job requires a lot of lifting, then returning may not be possible for six to eight weeks.