Is Microdiscectomy a Major Surgery? What You Need to Know
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to treat a herniated or ruptured disc in the spine. Many people who are considering this procedure wonder whether it is considered a major surgery or not. This article will look at the answer to this question, as well as what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Table of Contents
What is Microdiscectomy?
Before we can answer the question of whether microdiscectomy is a major surgery or not, it is important to understand what the procedure entails. Disc herniation or rupture is treated with a microdiscectomy, a type of surgery.
The disc portion putting pressure on the nerve root or spinal cord is removed by the surgeon during the procedure. Incisions usually measure less than an inch in length. The procedure is called “micro” because it is performed using a microscope, which allows the surgeon to see the disc and nerve roots in greater detail.
What are the Benefits of Microdiscectomy?
There are several benefits to choosing microdiscectomy over traditional open surgery. These include:
Reduced recovery time:
Since the incision is smaller and there is less damage to surrounding tissue, recovery time is generally shorter.
Reduced risk of complications:
Microdiscectomy is less invasive, which means there is less risk of complications such as infection, blood loss, or nerve damage.
Less scarring:
Because the incision is smaller, there is less scarring after the procedure.
Is Microdiscectomy a Major Surgery?
Now, back to the question at hand: is microdiscectomy a major surgery? The answer is somewhat subjective, as the definition of “major surgery” can vary depending on who you ask. However, most medical professionals would not consider microdiscectomy to be a major surgery.
This is because the procedure is minimally invasive, meaning it does not involve a large incision or significant disruption of the surrounding tissue.
If you’re considering microdiscectomy surgery, we recommend that you consult with a qualified ortho surgeon to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure.
What to Expect During a Microdiscectomy Procedure
If you are scheduled to have a microdiscectomy procedure, there are several things you can expect during the process.
Pre-Procedure
Before the procedure, you will have a pre-operative appointment with your surgeon. During this appointment, you will discuss the details of the procedure and any necessary preparations that you need to make. Your surgeon may also order some pre-operative tests, such as blood work or imaging scans, to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo the procedure.
During the Procedure
On the day of the procedure, you will be given anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. The surgeon will then make a small incision in your back and use a microscope to locate the affected disc. The portion of the disc that is causing pressure on the nerve root or spinal cord will be removed. An hour to two hours is usually required for the procedure.
After the Procedure
Following the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room and monitored until the anaesthesia wears off. You may be given pain medication to manage any discomfort you are experiencing. Most patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure, although some may need to stay overnight for observation.
Recovery After Microdiscectomy
The recovery process after microdiscectomy varies depending on the individual, but there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what to expect.
Immediate Recovery
Immediately after the procedure, you will be advised to rest and avoid any strenuous activity. You will likely need to take pain medication for a few days and may experience some discomfort or soreness in the area where the incision was made. You will also need to keep the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection.
Short-Term Recovery
In the days and weeks following the procedure, you will gradually begin to feel better. Approximately a week after the procedure, most people can return to work. However, you should avoid any heavy lifting, twisting, or bending for several weeks to give your body time to heal. You may also need to attend physical therapy sessions to help regain strength and mobility in your back.
Long-Term Recovery
For most people, the long-term outlook after microdiscectomy is positive. The majority of patients experience significant relief from their symptoms and are able to resume normal activities without pain or discomfort. However, it is important to continue to take care of your back to prevent future injury. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and using proper posture and body mechanics.
If you’re considering disc replacement surgery, we recommend that you consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in this procedure.
FAQs
How long does microdiscectomy surgery take?
It usually takes between one and two hours to complete the procedure.
Is microdiscectomy painful?
Most patients experience some discomfort or soreness in the area where the incision was made, but this can be managed with pain medication.
After a microdiscectomy, how long does it take for you to recover?
Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but most people are able to return to work within a few days to a week after the procedure.
Can a herniated disc come back after microdiscectomy?
There is a small risk of recurrence after microdiscectomy, but most people experience long-term relief from their symptoms.
What are the risks of microdiscectomy surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with microdiscectomy. Anesthesia reactions and infection are among the most common problems. However, these risks are relatively low with microdiscectomy compared to traditional open surgery.
Conclusion
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to treat a herniated or ruptured disc in the spine. While it is not considered major surgery, it is important to understand what the procedure entails and what to expect during the recovery process.
By following the guidelines provided by your surgeon and taking care of your back after the procedure, you can expect to experience significant relief from your symptoms and return to normal activities without pain or discomfort.