A discectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a damaged or herniated portion of a spinal disc. Damaged and herniated discs can irritate and place pressure on the surrounding spinal nerves, causing symptoms such as pain, weakness, and numbness.
There are different types of discectomies, each using specific techniques to remove or repair the damaged disc. Understanding the different types of discectomy can help you decide what the best option is for your condition. The following are the two main types of discectomy:
Open Discectomy
An open discectomy is a traditional form of spine surgery. It involves making an incision large enough to access the herniated disc directly. This procedure helps relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. Doing so can reduce pain and improve function.
It is typically done under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay. Recovery involves physical therapy and a gradual return to normal activities. The following are the steps used in an open discectomy:
- Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in the skin right over the affected area of the spine.
- Exposure: Muscles and tissues are moved aside to expose the spine.
- Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the damaged portion of the disc. Sometimes, other parts like bone or ligaments may also be removed to provide better access.
- Closure: The incision is closed using staples or stitches. The area is then bandaged.
Minimally Invasive Discectomy
A minimally invasive discectomy is a surgery in which a part of a herniated disc is removed through smaller incisions. This approach aims to reduce recovery time and minimize damage to surrounding tissues.
This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. As a result, recovery time is often faster than that of traditional open surgery. Patients can usually go home the same day or after a short hospital stay. These are the steps used in a minimally invasive discectomy:
- Incision: A small incision is made in the skin over the affected area.
- Access: Using special tools, the surgeon makes a pathway to the herniated disc without moving or cutting much of the muscle and tissue around it.
- Removal: Through this pathway, the surgeon removes the damaged portion of the disc. This might involve using a microscope or endoscope to see the disc clearly.
- Closure: The incision is closed using stitches or small bandages.
Who Is A Good Candidate For A Discectomy Procedure?
Before getting a discectomy, you should speak with a doctor to determine the best course of action for your condition. Each person’s situation is unique, and what works for one individual may not be suitable for another. A thorough medical evaluation can help identify if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
That said, the following are examples of suitable candidates for a discectomy:
- Individuals with persistent and severe lumbar or thoracic pain caused by a herniated or damaged spinal disc
- Individuals with herniated discs causing significant pain, numbness, or weakness
- Those whose symptoms interfere with daily activities or quality of life
- People experiencing sharp pain, numbness, or weakness that extends to the legs or arms, depending on the location of the herniation
- People whose pain doesn’t get better with physical therapy, medications, or injections
- Individuals with herniated discs causing significant pain, numbness, or weakness
When dealing with chronic back pain or nerve issues caused by a herniated disc, a discectomy might be an option worth considering. This surgical procedure can provide relief when other treatments haven’t worked.
Understanding the benefits of a discectomy can help you make an informed decision about your course of treatment. The following are some of the primary benefits:
Effective Pain Management
A discectomy can help reduce chronic pain caused by a herniated disc. Removing the damaged part of the disc relieves the pressure on the nerves, which can lead to less pain.
Improved Mobility
A discectomy can help improve your ability to move. By reducing the pressure on your nerves, you may experience less pain and stiffness, allowing you to move more freely and comfortably.
Improved Quality Of Life
A discectomy can improve quality of life by reducing pain and improving mobility. With less pain and better movement, you can return to activities you love. For example, you might be able to play sports, garden, or spend time with family and friends again without discomfort.
What To Expect During Your Doctor’s Appointment
You will want to understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more at ease and ensure you get the most out of your visit. Here’s a brief overview of what you might encounter throughout the process.
Before The Procedure
- Healthcare provider consultation: You will first meet with your doctor to talk about your symptoms, medical history, and the details of the procedure.
- Present records: Bring your medical records, such as imaging results and a list of your current medications. This will help your doctor better understand your condition.
- Receive instructions for the process: Your doctor will give clear instructions to follow before the procedure, such as what to eat or drink and any changes to your medications.
During The Procedure
- Anesthesia administration: You will receive anesthesia to make sure you are comfortable and pain-free.
- Incision (for open discectomy): The surgeon will make a cut to access the affected area.
- Fluoroscopy (for minimally invasive discectomy): The surgeon will use imaging to guide the tools through a small cut.
- Disc removal: The surgeon will remove the damaged part of the disc.
- Closing of incision: The incision will be closed with stitches or staples.
After The Treatment
- Implementing home care instructions: Follow your doctor’s care instructions. These may include guidelines on wound care, activity restrictions, and medication management.
- Monitoring of post-procedural side effects: Keep an eye on any side effects or changes and report them to your doctor.
- Going to follow-up appointments: Go to all your follow-up appointments so your doctor can evaluate the results and address any concerns.
Conditions That Discectomy Could Help
Discectomy can be a valuable treatment for various spine-related conditions. This surgery aims to relieve pressure on the nerves, which can reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness. A discectomy can help with:
Neck And Back Pain
Discectomy can help with persistent neck and back pain caused by disc issues. This treatment is especially useful when other non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief.
