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Microdiscectomy Endoscopic Discectomy in Bhubaneswar

Microdiscectomy Endoscopic Discectomy

Microdiscectomy Endoscopic Discectomy in Bhubaneswar

Microdiscectomy

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the removal of a small portion of a herniated or protruding disc that compresses the nerve in the spine using a light microscope. The microscope enables the surgeon to view any herniation from a wider perspective, allowing precise, smaller incisions. Using a scissor-like tool, the surgeon extracts the herniated tissue, alleviating the pressure on the nerve. Microdiscectomy is commonly done on the lower back region (lumbar spine), although it can also be employed in the neck (cervical spine) and mid-back (thoracic spine).

Endoscopic Discectomy

Endoscopic Discectomy, also known as Microlumbar Discectomy (MLD), is a minimally invasive procedure that uses an endoscopic camera and specialised surgical instruments to remove a small portion of herniated discs. Endoscopic Discectomy has less tissue invasiveness compared to Microdiscectomy, facilitating a faster recovery rate than the former. Spine surgeons at Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, possess immense proficiency and experience in employing cutting-edge techniques for Microdiscectomy and Endoscopic Discectomy, aiding in pain relief and efficient mobility.  Our at Manipal Hospital for Microdiscectomy Endoscopic Discectomy in Bhubaneswar performs the procedures with utmost efficiency and care. 

FAQ's

Symptoms that generally indicate undergoing a Microdiscectomy or Endoscopic Discectomy procedure include:

  • Persistent pain, especially in the lower back or neck region
  • Sharp shooting pain that radiates towards the legs, called sciatica

  • Loss of bowel and bladder functionality

  • Herniated disc or severe nerve compression

  • Standard treatments such as the consumption of over-the-counter medications like painkillers, epidural spinal injections, and physical therapy do not work

The surgical goal of Microdiscectomy is to remove the disc fragment that compresses the nerve in the lumbar or cervical region. During the surgery, local anaesthesia is administered around the region to numb the pain. The surgeon makes a small incision where the pain is present. A tubular retractor or dilator is used subsequently to move out overlying muscles until the spine is exposed. Using a lighted, powerful microscope and surgical instruments, the pinched root is retracted, and the affected disc is removed. The incisions are later closed with absorbable sutures and covered with bandages. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, the patient may get discharged on the same day. 
 

It could take up to eight weeks to resume your regular activities. Working with a physiotherapist to improve the muscles surrounding your spine and trunk may be recommended by your doctor. To avoid overstressing your back, you will need to learn how to lift, twist, and bend.

 

Local anaesthesia is administered to minimise pain during both procedures. However, you may experience significant pain after the surgery, which will subside after a few weeks. Non-opioid drugs and muscle relaxants provide relief to patients after the surgery. Additionally, patients who have suffered from nerve compression and its associated symptoms for an extended period may require more time for the pain to subside. It is essential to seek advice on pain management post-surgery with your healthcare provider. 

Complications that could arise with Microdiscectomy and Endoscopic Discectomy procedures include:

  • Dural tear, which leads to leakage of cerebrospinal fluid and infections
  • Retroperitoneal haematoma while performing Endoscopic Discectomy

  • Seizures

  • Neurological issues

  • Temporary dorsal root ganglion (DRG) irritation in the spinal cord

  • Recurrent disc herniation

  • Formation of blood clots 

Your medical provider will inform you about any possible risks that may manifest during the surgery and will provide timely intervention.

While Microdiscectomy involves the use of a specialised microscope to view the region of herniation, a long, thin, camera-fixed endoscope is employed in the Endoscopic Discectomy procedure. During the Endoscopic Discectomy procedure, a guide wire with the help of an X-ray is inserted down the level of the spine. A dilator is inserted over the guide wire and subsequently over the dilator by a portal tube to create a portal through the herniated disc. An endoscope is inserted through the tube, and the herniated tissue is removed. Small annular tears are treated with a laser to kill pain and harden the disc. The incision is closed with an absorbable stitch. 

Common benefits of both procedures include faster recovery, fewer incisions, and fewer complications. However, Endoscopic Discectomy provides clearer visuals of herniation, minimal interference in nerves, and less removal of bone and muscular retraction compared to Microdiscectomy. 
 

Your medical healthcare provider would provide you with personalised instructions and may impose several restrictions to enhance healing during your recovery period.  General restrictions, however, may include:
 

  • Prolonged sitting and standing for a long period

  • Driving for extended hours

  • Lifting or performing other strenuous exercises

  • Following the proper exercise suggested by your physical therapist

Adhering to the prescribed medication region

Measures you can take to minimise the recurrence of herniated discs include:

  • Quitting smoking, drinking, and using tobacco
  • Maintaining proper posture when sitting at the workplace and taking essential breaks in between

  • Wearing flat footwear instead of high heels

  • Regular exercise with minimal exertion and maintaining a healthy body weight

  • Employing proper techniques for lifting 

Minimal invasive procedures, although they foster quick recovery, are prone to recurrence. If patients exhibit symptoms even after treatment, other surgical procedures are considered for permanent relief.

These surgeries have high success rates, with most patients experiencing significant relief from pain and improved mobility. Success rates can be as high as 90–95% for properly scrutinised patients.