Discectomy or microdiscectomy for a herniated disc

Discectomy (also called open discectomy) is the surgical removal of herniated disc material that presses on a nerve root or the spinal cord. Before the disc material is removed, a small piece of bone (the lamina) from the affected vertebra may be removed. This is called a laminotomy or laminectomy and allows the surgeon to better see and access the area of disc herniation.

Microdiscectomy uses a special microscope or magnifying instrument to view the disc and nerves. The magnified view makes it possible for the surgeon to remove herniated disc material through a smaller incision, thus causing less damage to surrounding tissue.

Before a discectomy, your doctor will examine you then order an imaging study, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT scan), or myelogram to confirm that a herniated disc is causing your symptoms.

During discectomy, the surgeon removes the portion of the disc that is herniated and protruding into the spinal canal. The disc space may also be explored, and any loose fragments of disc can be removed.

These procedures are usually done in a hospital, using general anesthesia. In some cases, discectomy can be done in an outpatient surgical center.

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