Advanced Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery for Long-Lasting Pain Relief
What Is Lumbar Microdiscectomy?
Lumbar Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery performed to remove a small portion of the herniated disc that is compressing the spinal nerves in the lower back.
The procedure is done using a microscope or surgical loupe, allowing the surgeon to work through a tiny incision and remove only the damaged disc fragment—without disturbing the rest of the spine.
It is primarily done to relieve:
Sciatica pain radiating from the lower back into the leg
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
Severe lower back pain due to nerve compression
Disc herniation or slipped disc unresponsive to medications or physiotherapy
Lumbar Microdiscectomy has a success rate of 90–95%, making it one of the most reliable surgical treatments for herniated discs.
Causes of Lumbar Disc Herniation
A herniated lumbar disc can occur due to:
Age-related disc degeneration
Sudden twisting or bending movements
Heavy weight lifting
Poor posture
Sedentary lifestyle
Sports injuries
Trauma or accident
When the disc protrudes, it presses against the nerve root, causing severe pain down the leg—commonly known as sciatica.
Symptoms Requiring Lumbar Microdiscectomy
Patients are considered for Lumbar Microdiscectomy when they experience:
1. Radiating Leg Pain
Sharp, shooting pain from the lower back into the buttock, thigh, and calf.
2. Nerve Compression Symptoms
Tingling
Numbness
Burning sensation
Pins-and-needles feeling
3. Muscle Weakness
Difficulty in walking, lifting the foot (foot drop), or climbing stairs.
4. Pain Not Relieved by Conservative Therapy
Medications, physiotherapy, rest, and lifestyle changes fail after 6–8 weeks.
5. Severe Sciatic Pain Affecting Daily Life
Inability to stand, walk, or sleep comfortably.
6. Cauda Equina Syndrome (Emergency)
Loss of bladder or bowel control—requires immediate surgery.
Lumbar Microdiscectomy Procedure – Step-by-Step Explanation
1. Pre-operative Planning
MRI and neurological assessment
Evaluation of symptoms
Pre-surgery lab tests
Anaesthesia clearance
2. Anaesthesia
The patient is given general anaesthesia.
3. Positioning
The patient is placed in a prone position to allow proper access to the spine.
4. Small Skin Incision
A 1–1.5 cm incision is made in the lower back.
5. Use of Microscope
A high-powered surgical microscope is used to visualise the nerves and discs.
6. Removal of Herniated Disc Fragment
Only the portion of the disc pressing on the nerve is removed.
The remaining disc is left untouched to maintain normal spinal function.
7. Nerve Decompression
The nerve is freed from pressure to restore normal function.
8. Closure
The incision is closed with absorbable sutures.
The surgery typically takes 30–45 minutes.
Postoperative Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery after Lumbar Microdiscectomy is generally smooth and quick.
Day of Surgery
Walk within 3–4 hours
Light meals permitted
Pain control via oral medications
First Week
Minimal pain around incision
Light activities allowed
Avoid bending or lifting
2–4 Weeks
Gradual return to normal routine
Physiotherapy for strengthening
Sitting allowed for longer durations
6 Weeks
Most patients resume work
Driving is permitted
Normal walking and light exercises
3 Months
Full recovery
Return to sports and heavy activities (with doctor approval)
Dr. Ankit Daware provides personalized postoperative guidance and physiotherapy programs to ensure complete recovery.