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A Microdiscectomy is usually performed by an orthopaedic surgeon or neurosurgeon who specialises in treating musculoskeletal spinal problems. Microdiscectomy is the gold standard surgical treatment for treating most lumbar (low back) disc herniations, which occur when the disc's inner softcore begins to leak into fractures or tears in the outer layer.
Microdiscectomy is commonly referred to as minimally invasive spine surgery since it only makes use of a small incision and a microscope or surgical glasses, known as loupes, to magnify the site of the damage. The surgeon also employs smaller tools and instruments to work in the spine's limited space.
Microdiscectomy is a sort of Spinal Decompression surgery, and the phrase "Microdecompression" indicates the surgical removal of any bone or ligament that is compressing a nerve. Regardless of the Microdiscectomy technique used, the surgical goal is the same: remove the disc fragment as well as any bone or ligament that may be pinching the nerve root. Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, has an experienced team of spine care surgeons offering effective treatment outcomes.
Herniations in the spinal discs can arise as a result of wear and tear or injury. Over time, the injured discs put strain on the spinal nerve column, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, legs, feet, and buttocks. A Lumbar Microdiscectomy uses minimally invasive procedures to identify and remove herniated disc fragments from the spine. This removes the accumulated pressure and the symptoms that result from it.
Most individuals with herniated discs who do not react to medicine and physical therapy over time are candidates for a Microdiscectomy. While the illness is most commonly found in those aged 30 to 50, it can also occur in people older than that. Herniated discs are uncommon in children and young adults, who typically recover without surgery. Adults in their 80s or 90s may benefit from Microdiscectomy, but they should be aware that this population is more likely to experience medical or surgical complications.
The surgery is often conducted under general anaesthesia. A tiny incision (often less than an inch) is made near the damaged disc. The surgeon used a microscope and specialised devices to remove the herniated disc debris, easing pressure on the spinal nerve.
Many people can benefit from long-term pain reduction and improved function after a Lumbar Microdiscectomy. However, some patients' symptoms may reoccur or require more surgery in the future. It is critical to follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions and attend all follow-up sessions to monitor your recovery and avoid complications.
You are normally able to sit and walk the day after surgery and can return home the next day. Before you leave the hospital, physiotherapists will teach you how to walk and get out of bed correctly. To avoid a strain injury or recurring disc damage or herniation, you should avoid bending at the waist, lifting a heavy object (greater than 3 kg), and twisting for the first 4-6 weeks. Aside from that, sitting for more than 40 minutes in the early postoperative period is not recommended; instead, get up and stretch your back. A soft brace (lumbar corset) is offered for extra lumbar support and comfort in the early postoperative period. Prolonged bracing is unnecessary and should be avoided.
After a two-week rest period to allow the soft tissues to heal, many patients feel well enough to return to work. However, Microdiscectomy recovery often necessitates six weeks of reduced activity, which includes a course of physical therapy beginning in weeks two or three. Physical therapists assist patients in improving core muscles and releasing stiff joints, as well as developing a home exercise programme to safeguard their spines.
All patients, particularly those who work physically demanding jobs, are advised to gradually resume their old routines. Because sitting in a chair and leaning forward puts pressure on the spine, people with more sedentary employment should pay attention to their posture and take a short stroll or perform some light exercise every hour or so.
Some people experience permanent benefits after a Discectomy or a less-invasive Microdiscectomy. Others may feel persistent discomfort months or years following surgery, which could indicate re-herniation of the same spinal disc.
Even if you had a less invasive Microdiscectomy, bending too soon after surgery may cause overstress or overstimulation of adjacent muscles. This could induce inflammation, which can irritate spinal nerves and produce discomfort.
Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding back-straining activities, maintaining excellent posture, and engaging in regular exercise (particularly core strengthening exercises) can all help to support long-term spine health and lower the risk of recurrent disc herniation.
While most patients recover well, it is critical to schedule follow-up meetings with your surgeon to evaluate progress and address any issues. Avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous activities at first, and then gradually reintroducing them under supervision, can help prevent difficulties.
While Microdiscectomy efficiently cures the symptomatic disc herniation, there is a modest chance of developing additional herniations in other discs over time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding excessive spinal strain, and following post-operative care recommendations can all help reduce this risk.
The time to resume exercise and sports varies depending on individual circumstances and the specific activities involved. Low-impact activities, such as walking, can usually be resumed after a few weeks; however, high-impact sports may require a longer period of rest to allow for optimal recovery.
Many patients report improvement from leg pain and other symptoms caused by nerve compression shortly after surgery. Full recovery, including back pain relief and a return to normal activities, may take many weeks to months as the healing process proceeds.
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