DISCECTOMY IN NEW JERSEY & NEW YORK

ABOUT DISCECTOMY AND MICRODISCECTOMY

Discectomy means the surgical removal of part of or an entire intervertebral disc. Unlike Discectomy, microdiscectomy uses microscopic magnification and is classified as a minimally invasive spinal procedure.

During both procedures, a small part of the bone over the nerve root and/or disc material under the nerve root is taken out. These treatments are typically performed for reasons such as:

• A fragment of the intervertebral disc that has broken off and is pressing on the spinal nerves/cord
• A disc that may be bulging or protruding and pressing on the spinal nerves/cord
• Medical conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis, and more

If they quality for both procedures, patients usually opt for a microdiscectomy, due to the host of advantages it offers to patients. These benefits include a smaller incision and scar, less risk of tissue damage and blood loss, and a higher likelihood of less post-operative pain and faster recovery times. Potential risks and complications of either procedure may vary depending on a patient’s age and general health.

After the procedure, patients are typically able to return to their normal daily routine in less than two weeks. However, this heavily depends upon their post-operative care and how strictly they adhere to the doctor’s orders regarding activity levels.

WHEN TO CONSIDER DISCECTOMY OR MICRODISECTOMY

The award-winning surgeons at IGEA Brain, Spine & Orthopedics generally use discectomy and microdiscectomy to treat patients suffering from a variety of symptoms caused by a bulging or herniated disc. Patients may be considered for these procedures if they’ve experienced such symptoms as the following:

• Severe pain, tingling, and weakness: Advanced-stage disc herniation can cause severe symptoms that prevent patients from living an active lifestyle and make even walking a challenging task.

• Loss of bowel and bladder function: A herniated disc in the lumbar region can cause tingling and weakness in the lower extremities. Because of this, some patients may experience bowel and bladder function issues, since the nerves in the spine that control this may be compromised.

• Sadness, anxiety, and depression: The symptoms of pain and limited mobility can take over a patient’s life. While medication may temporarily relieve symptoms, chronic pain can have effects on your lifestyle, wellbeing, and outlook on life.