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Microdiscectomy

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine procedure that removes the portion of a herniated disc pressing on a nerve. The goal is to relieve leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, and weakness caused by nerve compression.

Am I a Candidate? Watch Video

Common Symptoms

  • Sciatica (radiating leg pain)
  • Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
  • Weakness in the leg or ankle
  • Pain worsened by sitting, bending, or coughing

Goals of Microdiscectomy

  • Relieve nerve pressure quickly
  • Reduce leg pain and neurologic symptoms
  • Preserve normal spinal structures
  • Support a faster return to activity
Overview How It Works Microdiscectomy vs Other Options Surgeon Expertise Video Candidacy Recovery Related FAQ

What Is a Microdiscectomy?

A microdiscectomy removes the portion of a herniated disc that is compressing a spinal nerve—most commonly in the lumbar spine. It’s one of the most effective procedures for relieving leg pain (sciatica) caused by a lumbar disc herniation.

The procedure is performed using specialized instruments and a small incision to minimize disruption to muscle and surrounding tissues.

Most important detail: Microdiscectomy is primarily designed to relieve leg pain and nerve symptoms. Back pain can improve too, but nerve decompression is the main target.

How the Procedure Works

During a microdiscectomy, the surgeon identifies the compressed nerve root and removes the disc fragment causing compression. The surgeon preserves as much of the healthy disc as possible while creating space for the nerve to recover.

Many patients experience meaningful relief of leg pain soon after surgery, especially when sciatica is the primary complaint.

What Microdiscectomy Treats

  • Herniated disc pressing on a nerve
  • Sciatica and radiating leg pain
  • Numbness/tingling from nerve irritation
  • Weakness caused by compression

Microdiscectomy vs Other Treatment Options

Treatment selection depends on the cause of symptoms. Microdiscectomy is best when a disc fragment is compressing a nerve and conservative care has not provided relief.

Microdiscectomy

  • Targets disc fragments compressing nerves
  • Strong option for sciatica
  • Small incision, tissue-sparing approach

Spinal Decompression

  • Broader term for nerve pressure relief
  • Often used for stenosis or multi-structure compression
  • May include laminectomy/foraminotomy
Spinal Decompression

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

  • Technique category (not one procedure)
  • Used for selected decompressions and fusions
  • Smaller incisions, less disruption
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
If symptoms are caused by narrowing of the spinal canal (not a disc fragment), a lumbar stenosis approach may be more appropriate than a microdiscectomy.

Surgeon Expertise Matters

Microdiscectomy is precise work around sensitive nerve tissue. Getting great results depends on accurate diagnosis, careful nerve protection, and removing the correct disc fragment while preserving healthy structures.

What You Want in a Surgeon

  • Clear confirmation that the disc herniation matches symptoms
  • Experience treating sciatica and neurologic deficits
  • Ability to use minimally invasive techniques when appropriate
  • Structured recovery planning and follow-up care

Dr. Yasmeh’s Approach

  • Patient-specific planning based on symptoms and imaging
  • Tissue-sparing technique when appropriate
  • Focus on nerve protection and lasting relief
  • Clear guidance on return-to-work and activity

Microdiscectomy Video

Educational animation explaining microdiscectomy for herniated disc-related nerve compression.

Who Is a Candidate?

You May Be a Candidate If

  • Leg pain (sciatica) persists despite conservative care
  • MRI confirms a disc herniation compressing a nerve
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness is present
  • Symptoms affect walking, work, or daily activity

Microdiscectomy May Be Recommended Sooner If

  • Progressive weakness is present
  • Severe pain limits normal function
  • There are red flags needing urgent evaluation
  • Symptoms and imaging match clearly
Seek urgent evaluation for new bowel/bladder changes, saddle numbness, or rapidly worsening weakness.

Recovery

Recovery timelines vary based on your symptoms, health, and the size/location of the herniation. Many patients notice leg pain relief early, while nerve healing for numbness or weakness can take longer.

Early Recovery

  • Walking encouraged early
  • Incision care and pain control plan
  • Avoid heavy lifting initially

Rehab Phase

  • Gradual return to activity
  • PT may be recommended
  • Core and hip stability focus

Return to Work

  • Desk work may return sooner
  • Physical jobs may require more time
  • Timeline is personalized to your case

FAQ

How fast does sciatica improve after microdiscectomy?

Many patients notice leg pain relief quickly, but nerve irritation can take time to settle. Numbness or weakness may improve gradually over weeks to months.

Can the disc herniation come back?

Re-herniation can occur in a small percentage of cases. Following post-op restrictions and rehab guidance helps reduce risk.

Do I need physical therapy after surgery?

Many patients benefit from a structured rehab plan focused on core strength, posture, and movement mechanics to prevent recurrence.