Microdiscectomy is surgery to remove part or all of a bulging or damaged (herniated) disc in the spine. A herniated disc in the low back (from the first lumbar vertebra to the sacrum) is called a lumbar herniated disc. It if irritates or presses on the spinal nerves, it can cause pain and numbness in the buttock and leg.
Most people can get better on their own. But for some people, surgery may help the pain and numbness. It may also improve movement.
Surgery is done to decrease pain and allow you to regain normal movement and function.
You and your doctor may consider surgery if:
Surgery is an emergency if you have cauda equina syndrome. Signs include:
You may be asleep or have medicine to relax you. And the area will be numbed if you're awake. It's often numbed even if you are asleep. You will not feel pain during the surgery.
The doctor will make a 1- to 2-inch cut (incision) in the skin over the spine. The doctor will put surgical tools through the incision and will use a special microscope (scope) to view the area.
The doctor may first remove a small amount of bone and other tissue from the spine. This helps the doctor see the area around the disc. Then the doctor removes the bulging disc material. Next, the doctor closes the incision with stitches.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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