Lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc in the lumbar spine. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our Neurology Department collaborates with experienced neurosurgeons to provide specialized care for patients undergoing lumbar microdiscectomy, focusing on effective treatment and recovery.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc may include lower back pain, radiating leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs. Lumbar microdiscectomy aims to alleviate these symptoms by removing the portion of the herniated disc pressing on the nerve roots.

Investigation and Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of a herniated lumbar disc involves a thorough assessment, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. These investigations help identify the location and severity of the disc herniation, guiding the treatment plan.

Procedure:

Lumbar microdiscectomy surgery involves making a small incision in the lower back and using specialized instruments to remove the portion of the herniated disc compressing the spinal nerve root. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be done on an outpatient basis.

Recovery Time:

Recovery time after lumbar microdiscectomy varies among patients but generally involves a gradual return to normal activities. Most patients experience relief from leg pain shortly after surgery, although it may take several weeks for the back to fully heal. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in rehabilitation.

 

What is lumbar microdiscectomy?

Lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc in the lumbar spine.

 

What are the symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc?

Symptoms may include lower back pain, radiating leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs. Lumbar microdiscectomy aims to alleviate these symptoms by removing the portion of the herniated disc pressing on the nerve roots.

 

How is a herniated lumbar disc diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a thorough assessment, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. These investigations help identify the location and severity of the disc herniation, guiding the treatment plan.

 

What does lumbar microdiscectomy surgery involve?

Lumbar microdiscectomy surgery involves making a small incision in the lower back and using specialized instruments to remove the portion of the herniated disc compressing the spinal nerve root. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be done on an outpatient basis.

 

What is the recovery time after lumbar microdiscectomy surgery?

Recovery time varies among patients but generally involves a gradual return to normal activities. Most patients experience relief from leg pain shortly after surgery, although it may take several weeks for the back to fully heal. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in rehabilitation.

 

Are there risks associated with lumbar microdiscectomy surgery?

Like any surgical procedure, lumbar microdiscectomy surgery carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve injury, or complications related to anesthesia. Your healthcare team will discuss these risks with you and take precautions to minimize them.

 

Will I need additional treatment after lumbar microdiscectomy surgery?

In most cases, lumbar microdiscectomy provides effective relief from symptoms, and additional treatment is not necessary. However, your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy or other supportive measures to aid in recovery and prevent future disc herniation.