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METRx Microdiscectomy
A minimally invasive discectomy is an operation that involves using either endoscopic or microscopic techniques to access and treat a disc in the spine.
Used to treat: Herniated Disc (Lumbar), Spondylolisthesis (Lumbar)
About this Surgery
A minimally invasive discectomy is an operation that involves using either endoscopic or microscopic techniques to access and treat in the spine. Only that portion of the herniated disc, which is pinching one or more nerve roots, is removed. The term discectomy is derived from the Latin words discus (flat, circular object or plate) and -ectomy (removal).
An understanding of what a minimally invasive discectomy involves will help you to approach your operation and recovery with confidence. The operation is performed with you lying on your stomach. Only a small incision is required. Once your pinched nerve is located, the extent of the pressure on the nerve can be determined. Your surgeon removes the herniated portion of the disc as well as any disc fragments that have broken off from the disc. The amount of effort required to complete the discectomy depends, in part, on the size of the disc herniation, the number of fragments present and the difficulty presented in finding and removing these fragments. Your surgeon then closes and covers the incision.
Your surgeon will have a specific post-operative recovery and exercise plan to help you return to normal life as soon as possible. The amount of time that you have to stay in the hospital will depend on this treatment plan. Minimally invasive discectomy is usually performed on an outpatient basis, with no overnight stay in the hospital.
Please keep in mind that all treatments and outcomes are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary. Complications, such as infection, blood loss, and bowel or bladder problems are some of the potential adverse risks of surgery. Please consult your physician for a complete list of indications, warnings, precautions, adverse events, clinical results and other important medical information.