What is a Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy is a procedure to remove a disc herniation using microsurgical techniques that relatively little interfere with the structure of the spine. This method of surgery allows the patient to be discharged home the next day after the procedure. This spinal surgery is performed under general anesthesia, this technique allows for a smaller incision than traditional spinal surgery methods. There is also less interference with the osteoarticular system of the spine. In the patient lying on his stomach, a small, approximately 2-3 cm incision is made in the designated place, then, with the help of an appropriate speculum and a speculum, a microdiscectomy procedure is performed - disc hernia removal. This may concern both the cervical spine and the lumbosacral spine.
The patient leaves the hospital on the second day after the procedure.
Microdiscectomy recommendations
The state of rupture of the annulus fibrosus and the extrusion of the nucleus pulposus into the spinal canal is commonly referred to as a slipped disc, an indication for microdiscectomy. This condition causes severe compression of the spinal nerve and the thecal sac resulting in severe, radiating pain in the spine (acute sciatica syndrome).
In the case of degenerative disease and cervical disc disease often with herniated of the nucleus pulposus, the dura, spinal roots and spinal cord are compressed. There are symptoms such as: neck pain, headache, between the shoulder blades, painful numbness (paresthesia) of the shoulder, hand, sometimes with its weakness and muscle atrophy.
However, if the degenerative changes affect the lumbosacral section, the patient may suffer from: severe pain and even paresis of the lower limbs, urinary incontinence.
Advantages of microdiscectomy
- minimally invasive spine surgery
- quick recovery and return to fitness
- quick relief of pain symptoms
Microdiscectomy post-operative procedure
Clean the wound and change the dressing. Return to work is possible after about 4-6 weeks. Both the neurologist and the physiotherapist (sometimes also other specialists) adjust the recommendations individually for each case and the patient should follow them.
Treatments are performed at the Medical Center in Katowice.
