The lumbar spine refers to the lower area of the spine between the pelvis and thoracic cage. Lumbar disc microsurgery, also known as microdiscectomy, is performed to relieve pressure on nerve roots. It is usually reserved for patients with severe symptoms that do not respond to more conservative treatments and significantly affect the patient’s quality of life.
Lumbar disc microsurgery is effective in relieving lower back and leg pain caused by lumbar disc herniation. A herniated disc is a common condition that occurs as a result of gradual wear and tear or an injury to an intervertebral disc, causing it to bulge and break open. Patients with this condition often experience pain, numbness and weakness in the affected area, as well as through the legs.
During lumbar disc microsurgery, an incision is made in the back at the location of the affected disc, and the muscles are lifted away to access the spine. Small surgical instruments and a microscope are inserted into this incision to repair the affected disc using minimally invasive techniques. Once the targeted nerve root is identified, the disc is removed from under the root, and a small portion of the facet joint may be removed as well to relieve pressure on the nerve.