Surgery
Discectomy
A discectomy removes part of a damaged spinal disc that is pressing on a nerve, to relieve leg or arm pain such as sciatica.
Quick answer
Discectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A discectomy removes the part of a herniated (slipped) disc that is pressing on a nearby nerve. When done through a small cut with a microscope, it is called a microdiscectomy.
- Why it is done: It is used for a slipped disc causing persistent or severe nerve pain (such as sciatica), numbness or weakness, when symptoms have not settled with time, painkillers and physiotherapy, or when there are serious nerve signs.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon reaches the spine through a small cut in the back and removes the portion of disc pressing on the nerve.
What it is
A discectomy removes the part of a herniated (slipped) disc that is pressing on a nearby nerve. When done through a small cut with a microscope, it is called a microdiscectomy.
Why it is done
It is used for a slipped disc causing persistent or severe nerve pain (such as sciatica), numbness or weakness, when symptoms have not settled with time, painkillers and physiotherapy, or when there are serious nerve signs.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon reaches the spine through a small cut in the back and removes the portion of disc pressing on the nerve. It commonly takes about an hour, often as a day case or overnight stay.
Recovery
Nerve (leg or arm) pain often improves quickly, while back or neck soreness settles over a few weeks. Gentle activity and physiotherapy are encouraged, with most people returning to normal life within weeks.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, a tear of the covering around the nerves, and the disc herniating again. It relieves nerve pain better than back pain.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Discectomy: frequently asked questions
Does a slipped disc always need surgery?
No. Most slipped discs improve with time, pain relief and physiotherapy. Surgery is usually reserved for severe or persistent nerve pain, or serious nerve symptoms such as weakness or bladder problems.
Can the disc slip again after surgery?
Yes, a further herniation can occur at the same level in a minority of people. Maintaining a healthy weight, good posture and core strength helps reduce the risk.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- British Orthopaedic Association / relevant professional body
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