Microdecompression
A microdecompression is often performed for lumbar disc herniation. The purpose of this procedure is to remove a small
portion of the bone (microdiscectomy) over the nerve root and/or disc material from under the nerve root. By doing so, the surgeon is able to relieve the pinched nerve and provide more room for the nerve to heal. Since almost all of the joints, ligaments and muscles are left intact, this procedure does not change the mechanical structure of the patient's lower spine.
This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis with no overnight stay in the hospital. After surgery, patients may return to a normal level of daily activity quickly. Some surgeons feel that it is best to restrict a patient from bending, lifting or twisting for the first six weeks following surgery.
The success rate for this type of surgery is approximately 90% to 95%. Some 5% to 10% of patients will develop a recurrent disc herniation at some point in the future.
