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Understanding the Difference: Standard Discectomy vs. Microdiscectomy

June 21, 2023 | By The Barricaid Team | Spine Surgery
    

6.21 - What Is the Difference Between Standard Discectomy & Microdiscectomy


When it comes to treating herniated discs, two commonly performed surgical procedures are standard discectomy and microdiscectomy. Both aim to alleviate pain and restore mobility, but they differ in several crucial aspects. This article delves into the distinctions between these two procedures to help you choose which one is right for you.

Herniated Disc Defined

Before explaining the surgical techniques, it is important to understand the condition they address. A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of an intervertebral disc bulges out through a tear in the tough outer layer. This can compress the spinal nerves or the spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the back, buttocks, legs, or feet. A herniated disc can be caused by trauma, aging, repetitive motion, or genetic factors. 

Standard Discectomy: Traditional Approach

Standard discectomy is a conventional surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on compressed nerves caused by a herniated disc. Here is a breakdown of the process:


  • Incision – The surgeon makes a moderate-sized incision over the affected area of the spine
  • Tissue and bone removal – The surgeon removes a portion of the lamina (the bony arch covering the spinal cord) to access the herniated disc
  • Disc material extraction – The herniated disc material is removed, decompressing the affected nerve
  • Incision closure – The incision is carefully closed using sutures or surgical staples
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Standard discectomy provides effective relief for many patients, but it involves a relatively larger incision and may require a longer recovery time compared to microdiscectomy.

Microdiscectomy: Minimally Invasive Approach

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to achieve similar outcomes with less tissue disruption. Here is how it differs from standard discectomy:

  • Incision size – The incision made in microdiscectomy is significantly smaller than in standard discectomy, typically around one inch or less
  • Microscopic guidance – The surgeon uses a high-powered microscope or an endoscope to visualize the surgical site with enhanced precision
  • Limited tissue and bone removal – Microdiscectomy involves minimal removal of the lamina, focusing solely on accessing the herniated disc
  • Disc material removal – The surgeon extracts the herniated disc material, relieving pressure on the affected nerve
  • Incision closure – Similar to standard discectomy, the incision is closed meticulously using sutures or adhesive strips
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Microdiscectomy offers several advantages over standard discectomy, including shorter hospital stays, reduced scarring, quicker back surgery recovery time, and potentially less damage to surrounding tissues.

Choosing the Procedure that Is Right for You 

Determining the most suitable procedure depends on various factors, including the severity of the herniated disc, the patient's overall health, and the surgeon's expertise. It is crucial to consult with a qualified spine specialist who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate course of action..

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Following either procedure, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is essential for a successful recovery. This typically involves physical therapy, exercises to increase strength and flexibility, and lifestyle modifications to prevent further injury.

While both standard discectomy and microdiscectomy aim to alleviate pain caused by herniated discs, they differ significantly in terms of invasiveness and surgical approach. The choice between the two procedures depends on individual factors, and it is important to consult with a spine specialist for personalized advice. With the right approach and medical guidance, individuals can find relief from herniated disc pain and regain their quality of life.

Although both discectomy and microdiscectomy surgery are generally very successful procedures, a hole is left in the outer wall of the disc. Patients with a large hole in the outer ring of the disc are more than twice as likely to experience reherniations after surgery. A new treatment, Barricaid, which is a bone-anchored device proven to reduce reherniations, was specifically designed to close the large hole often left in the spinal disc after microdiscectomy. In a large-scale study, 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in the 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done 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.

 

 

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