Lumbar Microdiscectomy

Lumbar microdiscectomy uses an operating microscope to remove a herniated disc that is causing pressure on a nerve in the lower spine. The magnification of the microscope enables the neurosurgeon to work through a small skin incision, reducing trauma to surrounding muscle and bone.

Procedure description: intravenous antibiotics are given before surgery to reduce infection risk. The patient is placed face down under general anaesthesia. X-ray confirms the correct disc level. A small piece of fat is removed from beneath the skin and saved for later use. Muscle is carefully dissected off the spine, then the microscope is used for the remainder of the operation. A small amount of bone is removed to allow clear visualisation of the nerve and disc. The disc herniation and any loose fragments are removed. The wound is irrigated with antibiotic solution. The saved fat graft is placed adjacent to the nerve to minimise post-operative scarring. Absorbable sutures are used under the skin, with stitches, staples, or skin glue on the surface.