Microdiscectomy

The prevalence of lumbar disc herniation is 12% in the United States. If you struggle with ongoing back discomfort because of a herniated disc, turn to North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates in Ridgewood, New Jersey. Skilled neurosurgeons Amanda Carpenter, MD, and Duncan Carpenter, MD, offer microdiscectomy surgery that diminishes your discomfort, prevents worsening pain, and restores your quality of life. Schedule a spinal evaluation by phone or online today.

What is a microdiscectomy?

A microdiscectomy is a type of surgery in which your neurosurgeon removes all or part of a spinal disc using small incisions, optimal visualization, and a less traumatic approach than open surgery. It’s a gold standard for removing a herniated disc, especially in the lumbar (lower) part of your back. A microdiscectomy helps reduce pain caused by nerve compression.

What are the benefits of a microdiscectomy?

The benefits of choosing microdiscectomy over open surgery include:

• Smaller incisions
• Minimal scarring
• Minimally invasive
• Less back pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Shorter recovery time
• Low risk of bleeding and other complications
• Restored quality of life

A microdiscectomy at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates is a safe procedure that uses the latest advances in minimally invasive technologies, including robotic surgical techniques and laparoscopy.

Who is a candidate for a microdiscectomy?

The experts at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates may suggest you undergo a microdiscectomy if you suffer from long-lasting pain, tingling, weakness, or numbness caused by disc herniation and nerve compression that haven’t resolved with conservative treatments (anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or epidural spinal injections). 

How should I prepare for a microdiscectomy?

Follow your provider’s instructions to prepare for a microdiscectomy at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates. They may ask you to stop taking certain medications and avoid eating or drinking before your scheduled procedure. You might complete an MRI or other imaging procedures prior to surgery.

What should I expect during a microdiscectomy?

You will receive local anesthesia with sedation to help you relax or general anesthesia to help you fall asleep during a microdiscectomy. 

The North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates specialists monitor your vital signs. They make a tiny incision near a damaged spinal disc, remove all or part of it using X-ray guidance, and close the incision. The procedure might last about an hour.

What happens after a microdiscectomy?

After the procedure, you can rest in a recovery area for a few hours and often go home the same day. However, have a family member or friend drive you home. Follow your post-procedure instructions and temporarily limit certain physical activities. 

Take any medications as directed and wear a back brace if your specialist asks you to. You can usually get back to work within a week. Attend physical therapy sessions to help you regain strength, as well as follow-up appointments at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates to ensure effective healing.

Schedule a microdiscectomy evaluation at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.