A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a herniated disc in the spine. Typically performed by a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon, it involves removing the portion of the disc that is causing pressure on the spinal nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, buttocks, or feet. This article discusses whether a microdiscectomy is a form of day surgery, also known as outpatient surgery or ambulatory surgery.
What Is a Microdiscectomy?
During a microdiscectomy, the surgeon uses a microscope or magnifying glasses to access the spine through a small incision. The surgeon then uses special instruments to remove the fragment of disc that is pressing on the nerve root and causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. The goal of the surgery is to decompress the nerve and restore its function.
A microdiscectomy is different from a traditional discectomy, which involves a larger incision and more removal of bone and soft tissue. A microdiscectomy is also more precise and less invasive than other types of spine surgery, such as laminectomy or fusion, and because it involves making a smaller incision and using specialized instruments, it has a reduced risk of complications, blood loss, and damage to surrounding tissues compared to traditional open surgery.
How Is a Microdiscectomy Performed?
Microdiscectomy surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and will not feel any pain during the procedure. The surgeon will make a small incision (about 1 to 1.5 inches) over the affected disc, then use a microscope and special tools to gently move aside the muscles and ligaments that cover the spine. The surgeon will then locate the herniated disc and carefully remove the fragment that is pressing on the nerve root. The doctor will also check for any other disc material that may be loose or protruding and remove it if necessary, then close the incision with stitches or staples and cover it with a bandage.
The surgery usually takes about an hour, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of discs involved. You will be moved to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for any signs of complications. You will also receive pain medication and instructions on how to care for your wound.
Can You Go Home the Same Day?
A microdiscectomy is often performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you can expect to go home the same day you have surgery. However, this depends on several factors, such as your overall health, the extent of your surgery, and your insurance coverage. Some patients may need to stay overnight in the hospital for observation or additional care.
Before being discharged from the hospital, you will need to have someone who can drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours. You will also need to follow your surgeon's instructions on how to manage your pain, prevent infection, and promote healing. You will likely be given a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics as well as a schedule for follow-up visits.
How Can You Prepare for a Microdiscectomy?
Before you undergo a microdiscectomy, you will need to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the surgery. Here are some steps you can take to get ready:
- Talk to your surgeon about the risks and benefits of the surgery as well as any alternatives or options you may have.
- Ask your surgeon about what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, including how long it will take, what type of anesthesia will be used, and what kind of recovery you can anticipate.
- Inform your surgeon about any medical conditions you have or medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements. You may need to stop or adjust some of them before the surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
- Prepare your home for your microdiscectomy recovery by stocking up on food, water, ice packs, pillows, blankets, books, movies, and anything else that can help you stay comfortable and keep you entertained.
- Follow your surgeon's instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery.
- Pack a bag with your personal items, such as your ID, insurance card, glasses, hearing aids, phone charger, etc.
- Shower and wash your hair with antibacterial soap the night before or the morning of the surgery.
- Do not wear any jewelry, makeup, nail polish, or contact lenses on the day of the surgery.
Patients who undergo microdiscectomy surgery can usually return to normal activities within a few days to a week after their procedures. However, it is important to follow the surgeon's instructions for post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.
Although microdiscectomy surgery is a common and generally quite successful procedure, patients with a larger hole in the outer ring of the disc have a significantly higher risk of herniation following surgery. This risk is doubled if there is a large hole in the outer ring of the disc. Fortunately, there is a new treatment specifically designed to close the large holes that are often left in spinal discs after discectomy surgery. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is performed immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-288-7474.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.