Discectomy
The tough outer layer of a disc tears or weakens, causing pain going down the leg (sciatica) although it can cause some back pain.
Discectomy
When the tough outer layer of a disc tears or weakens, the central material within the disc may bulge or protrude through this defect into the spinal canal.
The major problem this causes is usually pain going down the leg (sciatica) although it can cause some back pain, due to inflammation around the damaged area of the disc. The sciatica is caused by the protruding disc material pressing on one of the nerve roots in the spine and it can be miserable when it occurs! Each nerve root in the lumbar spine supplies sensation to a specific area of the leg on that side and also controls certain muscles in the leg. When the nerve is compressed or irritated pain may be felt in this area. If the function of the nerve root is also affected it can cause alteration or loss of sensation, a sense of 'pins and needles' and weakness in the muscles supplied by the nerve root.
Rationale for Discectomy
Discectomy aims to remove the protruding or bulging disc material that is pressing on the nerve root and causing sciatic pain. This will give the nerve root the best chance for recovery.
The term microdiscectomy is often used, and refers to a procedure using a small incision, microsurgical instruments and an operating microscope or surgical 'loops' (magnifying glasses worn by the surgeon). These techniques are now normal practice with most spinal surgeons undertaking a discectomy.
If you have an enquiry about Spinal Discectomy please use our enquiry form, or call us on 023 8025 8454.
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I was quite sure, when I came along to the clinic, that I was headed for surgery. I’d tried various things in the past and had even gone through physiotherapy, or so I thought! The regime I went through in The Spine Clinic took this to an entirely different level. And what a difference it has made!
Mark Maskey
