What is Lumbar Microdisectomy?

Lumbar mcrodisectomy is the most common operation performed by neurosurgeons to treat leg pain / sciatica. A small incision (under an inch long) is made in the middle of the back, an opening is made into the spinal canal and part of the piece of offending disc is removed.

Lumbar Disc Shock-absorber

Not all of the disc is removed because most of the disc is still acting as a valuable “shock-absorber” within the spine. Consultant Neurosugeon, Mr Ranjeev Bhangoo says, "The operation typically takes less than one hour. Patients should be encouraged to walk around as soon as possible after the procedure and some are even well enough to go home on the evening of the procedure, although an overnight stay is more common. Patients usually report some moderate back discomfort for the first few days after the procedure. Depending on your occupation a period of between two and six weeks off work is usually recommended."

More than 90% of patients notice an immediate relief from leg pain. In around one in 20 patients a recurrence of the herniation may occur at some point in future life. See - Neurosugery for Pain Management / Leg Pain Sciatica

Endoscopic Lumbar Microdisectomy

This operation is now increasingly performed using keyhole surgery or 'endoscopically' - see Endoscopic Microdisectomy, As

When part of an organ pushes through the wall of the body cavity that normally holds it. Hernias can develop in many different parts of the body. Full medical glossary
An abnormal protrusion (sticking out) of tissue Full medical glossary
A type of minimally invasive surgery. Full medical glossary
A craving to eat non-food substances such as earth or coal. Full medical glossary
Displacement of part of the body below its normal site. Full medical glossary
Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which is the main nerve in each leg and the largest nerve in the body. Full medical glossary