Microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat prolapsed intervertebral discs, which can lead to back pain and muscle weakness and numbness in the legs. This surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery that removes all or part of the disc using an operating microscope.
The microdiscectomy procedure is performed by creating a small incision in the patient's skin in the back area. Surgeons then use special instruments to pass through the tissue and reach the damaged disc. An operating microscope allows surgeons to have a more precise view of the surgical site, allowing them to remove the disc with less risk of damaging surrounding tissue.
One of the main advantages of microdiscectomy is that it allows the operation to be performed with minimal impact on surrounding tissue. Microdiscectomy also has a lower risk of complications than the traditional surgical procedure.
Microdiscectomy may be recommended for patients who suffer from leg and lower back pain caused by a bulging disc. The procedure may also be recommended if conservative treatments such as medications and physical therapy have not significantly improved the patient's condition.
Although microdiscectomy is considered a safe procedure, like any surgical procedure, it is not without risks and complications. Therefore, before undergoing this procedure, the patient should discuss all possible risks and side effects with the doctor.
Overall, microdiscectomy is an effective and safe procedure for treating prolapsed intervertebral discs. It allows the patient to return to normal life after surgery with minimal impact on his health.
Microdiscectomy is a method of surgical removal of intervertebral discs that are located between the vertebrae of the spine. This is done to relieve the pressure created by the protruding intervertebral disc on the spinal cord and spinal nerves.
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive method because the operation is performed through a very small incision in the tissue. Using a microscope, the surgeon can work in very close contact with the tissue, which allows him to remove the disc with high precision.
To perform a microdiscectomy, you must complete the following steps:
- The patient lies down on the operating table and the anesthesiologist puts the patient under anesthesia.
- The surgeon makes a small incision in the intervertebral disc, which is located between two vertebrae.
- Through the incision, the surgeon inserts very thin instruments and removes all or part of the prolapsed disc.
- After the disc is removed, the surgeon closes the incision and applies stitches.
- After the operation, the patient remains in the hospital under the supervision of doctors until complete recovery.
Benefits of microdiscectomy include:
– Minimal tissue damage;
– Short recovery period;
– Low risk of complications;
– Quick restoration of performance.
However, like any surgery, microdiscectomy has its risks and limitations. For example, it may not be effective in removing large discs and may cause complications such as infection or spinal cord damage. Therefore, before performing a microdiscectomy, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination and discuss all possible risks with the surgeon.
Microdiscectomy: A minimally invasive approach to treating prolapsed intervertebral discs
Microdiscectomy, or microsurgical disc removal, is an effective procedure for treating prolapsed discs that cause back pain and related symptoms. This surgical technique, performed using an operating microscope, removes the damaged portion of the disc, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves and spinal cord.
A prolapsed disc occurs when the soft substance inside the disc, known as the nucleus pulposus, is squeezed through the damaged outer lining. This can cause pressure on surrounding nerve structures, resulting in pain, numbness, and decreased function in the lower extremities or other areas of the body depending on the level of the spine that is damaged.
Microdiscectomy was developed as an alternative to open discectomy, which requires a larger incision and more intensive tissue dissection. It offers a number of advantages over traditional methods, including less trauma, faster recovery and less chance of complications.
The microdiscectomy procedure begins with a small incision in the skin, usually about 1-2 centimeters. The surgeon then uses an operating microscope to improve visibility and precision. Using special instruments inserted through the incision, the surgeon removes the damaged or bulging part of the disc, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.
One of the main advantages of microdiscectomy is its minimally invasive nature. The small incision and use of an operating microscope allows the surgeon to preserve surrounding tissue and structures, minimizing the risk of damage and reducing recovery time. Most microdiscectomy patients can leave the hospital within a few days after surgery and return to daily activities within a few weeks.
However, like any surgical procedure, microdiscectomy is not without potential risks and complications. Although rare, infections, bleeding, and damage to nerves or spinal structures are possible. Therefore, it is important to consult an experienced neurosurgeon or orthopedic back surgeon to evaluate the indications for surgery and decide on the best treatment method.
In conclusion, microdiscectomy is an effective and innovative surgical procedure for the treatment of prolapsed intervertebral discs. Its minimally invasive approach, using an operating microscope, allows surgeons to precisely remove the damaged part of the disc, relieving pressure on nerve structures and the spinal cord. If you have back problems, discuss the possibility of microdiscectomy with a specialist to determine if this procedure is right for you and your specific case.