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Microlumbar Discectomy
Microlumbar Discectomy
What is Microlumbar Discectomy?
Microlumbar Discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which a compressed nerve root in the lower back due to a herniated inter-vertebral disk is decompressed. Decompression of the nerve root relieves the back and leg pain.
How is Microlumbar Discectomy Performed?
A small incision of approximately one inch is made on the patient's low back, above the compressed nerve root. An operative microscope is used to remove a crescent shaped part of the bone from the spine, which then discloses the compressed nerve root and herniated inter-vertebral disk. Then, the nerve root is decompressed by removing the disc. The disc nucleus that is degenerated is removed with a curette from the central disc space. The incision is then closed with dissolvable sutures.
How to Prepare for the Surgery?
- The patient should inform the doctor about any ailments, medical conditions and medication that the patient may be taking.
- The patient should not smoke for several days before the surgery.
- Two weeks prior to the surgery, the doctor may stop certain medication that the patient may be taking.
- The patient is required to do an MRI or CT scan before a microlumbar discectomy.
How much time is required?
The procedure requires only 1-2 hours and Most patients can return home on the same day of the surgery. Patients may be discharged within 24 hours after the surgery.
What type of anesthesia will be given?
General anesthesia
How will patient recover?
- The bandage may be removed before the patient is discharged from the hospital. If not, it will be removed 24 to 36 hours after the surgery.
- If the sutures or staples are not dissolvable, they will be removed after two weeks.
- The patient may experience post-surgery muscle spasm. Medication may be provided for this.
What should be cared?
- The patient's wounds should be dressed daily and checked for any infection and swelling.
- The doctor should be informed if the patient has fever.
- Regular diet may be followed by the patient.
- The patient should not strain to have a bowel movement.
- The patient may take a shower 3 days after the surgery. However, bathtubs and swimming pools should be avoided.
- The patient should not drive for 2 to 3 weeks after the surgery.
- Sitting intervals should be limited to 20 to 30 minutes.
- Walking is encouraged.
- Strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects should be avoided.
