A lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on your nerves and spinal cord in your back caused by a herniated disc. It involves the removal of a portion of the bulging disc, hence, the term “micro”.
Today, a microdiscectomy can be performed as a minimally-invasive procedure, which requires a smaller incision and the use of miniature tools. Patients who undergo minimally-invasive microdiscectomy report less pain and a faster recovery than those who undergo traditional microdiscectomy.
So, when do you need to get a microdiscectomy? A microdiscectomy is rarely an early recommendation to patients with bulging or herniated disc problems. Usually, patients who experience the following symptoms are recommended a microdiscectomy by their doctors.
Severe Pain, Tingling, and Weakness
Advanced stage herniation can cause severe symptoms that prevent you from living an active lifestyle and make even walking a challenging task. More than the physical symptoms, being unable to do the things that you love and living with intolerable pain can also affect your psyche. For this reason, those whose overall quality of life is greatly reduced due to this condition are recommended to get a microdiscectomy.
Loss of Bowel and Bladder Function
A herniated disc in the lumbar region can cause tingling and weakness in the lower extremities. Some patients may also experience bowel and bladder function issues since the nerves in the spine that control bowel and bladder functions are located in the lower lumbar region, and the herniated disc may be pressing against these nerves. For patients that develop incontinence issues, a lumbar microdiscectomy may be recommended.
Sadness, Anxiety, and Depression
Pain and limited mobility are symptoms that can take over your life. What patients with a herniated disc experience is no a laughing matter. While there is medication that can temporarily relieve pain, chronic pain can have effects on your lifestyle, wellbeing, and outlook on life. With minimally-invasive microdiscectomy, patients may experience greater relief from symptoms, faster recovery, and regain the ability to participate in physical activities. The value of an active lifestyle that lets you enjoy the activities you love should not be underestimated.
Is A Microdiscectomy Right For You?
Not every patient with a herniated disc will benefit from a microdiscectomy. If you’ve been dealing with symptoms associated with a herniated disc, and your current treatment program does not provide satisfying results, speak with an orthopedic specialist about whether you may be a good candidate for this procedure.
Minimally Invasive Microdiscectomy in Rochester Hills, MI
If you have pain and other symptoms associated with a herniated disc, you don’t have to live with it. The compassionate and skilled team at Ahlgren Spine can assess your condition and current treatment plan and recommend more effective solutions. Let us determine if a microdiscectomy is right for your condition. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon, Dr. Bradley D. Ahlgren has successfully performed numerous microdiscectomies.
To schedule a consultation, call Ahlgren Spine at (248) 215-8080 or request an appointment today. Our friendly staff will get back to you quickly.
