Spinal Discectomy

A discectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part of the damaged disc in your spine. Spinal discs cushion the vertebrae in your spine, so when a disc becomes herniated or ruptures, it can press on the nerve root and cause pain to radiate down the corresponding leg.
Spinal Discectomy

Treatment for Spinal Discectomy

A spinal discectomy can be performed using different approaches depending on where the damaged disc is located.
Procedures

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.

Recovery
After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room and will be watched in case complications and/or issues arise. Depending on the severity of the herniated disc, you may be able to go home that day or have to stay overnight for observation.

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.

Schedule an Appointment for Spinal Discectomy Today

If you are experiencing pain, numbness, and/or weakness in your arms or legs then it’s possible you have a herniated disc that needs to be treated. Contact Dr. Hart Garner today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.