Diskectomy Procedure
Overview
Diskectomy is a type of surgical procedure in which the surgeon removes a part of a damaged or herniated disk in the spine. Surgeons mostly use this surgery when a herniated disk presses on nearby nerves and causes pain that moves down the arms or legs. Usually, doctors suggest other treatments like medicine, weight management, or physical therapy before choosing surgery.
Main goals of diskectomy surgery:
- Relieve pressure on spinal nerves
- Decrease pain that spreads from the back to the limbs
- Improve movement and function
Surgeons can use different methods to perform a diskectomy. Many now use a minimally invasive approach. This technique uses small cuts and special tools, such as a tiny camera or microscope, to help remove the disk. Minimally invasive surgery often leads to shorter recovery times and smaller scars compared to traditional methods.
Diskectomy may not help as much for pain limited to the back or neck alone. A healthcare provider will look at each case to decide if this procedure is the right option.
Reasons for the Procedure
Surgeons perform a diskectomy to help relieve pain or other symptoms caused by a herniated disc. When the soft inner part of a spinal disc pushes out, it can put pressure on nearby nerves. Common reasons for diskectomy include:
- Ongoing back pain or leg pain from a compressed nerve.
- Weakness that affects standing or walking.
- Symptoms not improving after weeks of treatments like physical therapy.
- Pain spreading into the legs, arms, or chest, making it hard to manage daily activities.
| Symptom | How It Affects People |
|---|---|
| Back or Leg Pain | Limits movement, causes discomfort |
| Nerve Weakness | Trouble standing or walking |
| Spreading Pain | Affects buttocks, legs, arms, or chest |
Possible Problems
Diskectomy can lead to some issues after surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and sometimes leaks of spinal fluid. There is also a chance of nerve or blood vessel damage, which may cause numbness or more pain.
How you get ready
Before the procedure, patients usually avoid eating or drinking for several hours. Those on blood thinners may need to change or stop their medication under medical advice. The healthcare team typically uses general anesthesia, so following all directions is important.
What You Can Expect
What Happens During the Surgery
Surgeons usually perform a diskectomy while the patient is under general anesthesia, so the patient is not awake. In most cases, the surgeon removes only the part of the disk pressing on the spinal nerves.
Sometimes, to reach the damaged area, the surgeon may also remove a small part of the spinal bone or ligaments. If the entire disk must be removed, the surgeon fills the empty space with bone. This bone could come from a donor, the patient’s pelvis, or be made from a synthetic material.
The surgeon may then join the nearby vertebrae together using a method called spinal fusion. For some people, the surgeon may use a minimally invasive or percutaneous lumbar discectomy, which involves smaller cuts and may result in a quicker recovery.
Quick Facts Table
| Surgery Types | Typical Approach |
|---|---|
| Lumbar discectomy | Lower back (lumbar) area |
| Minimally invasive diskectomy | Small incisions, less muscle cut |
| Spinal fusion | Joining vertebrae, if needed |
What Recovery Looks Like
Right after the operation, staff closely watch patients in a recovery area to monitor for problems with anesthesia or bleeding. Many people can go home on the same day, but a short hospital stay may be necessary if there are risks.
Most people return to normal light activities, including some jobs, in about 2 to 6 weeks. Those who do heavy lifting or operate machinery should plan for at least 6 to 8 weeks off to heal fully and protect the spine. Recovery time may be quicker after a minimally invasive procedure.
Results
Most people who undergo diskectomy experience noticeable pain relief, especially if they had nerve symptoms like leg pain. Studies show that around 65% report being very satisfied, while others feel satisfied or have less pain. Some people see a clear increase in quality of life and better functional status after surgery.
| Outcome | Percentage of Patients |
|---|---|
| Significant Pain Relief | ~62% |
| Satisfied/Very Satisfied | ~94% |
| Require Further Surgery | ~7% |
