What Happens During a Microdiscectomy?

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the procedure:

Preparation

• Hospital Admission: You will be admitted on the day of surgery and required to fast as directed by your anaesthetist.
• Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is administered so you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure. A urinary catheter may be inserted if a longer procedure is anticipated, and antibiotics are given to reduce infection risk.

Positioning

• You will be positioned face down on the operating table with your abdomen supported to maintain the natural curve of your spine. This positioning allows optimal access to the herniated disc.

Incision

• Small Incision: Prof Aaron Buckland makes a small incision, usually 3 to 4 cm long, directly over the affected disc in your lower back.

Accessing the Spine

• Muscle Retraction: Specialized instruments gently retract the back muscles without cutting them, minimizing tissue damage and aiding quicker recovery.

Removal of Bone (Laminotomy)

• In many cases, a small portion of the lamina (the bone covering the nerve) and associated ligaments are removed to gain better access to the herniated disc and ensure the nerve is fully decompressed.

Removing the Herniated Disc Material

• Microscopic Assistance: Using a high-powered microscope for enhanced visibility, the herniated disc material pressing on the nerve is carefully removed. The healthy portion of the disc is preserved to maintain its cushioning effect.

Closing the Incision

• Once the disc material is removed, the instruments are withdrawn and the muscles return to their normal position. The incision is then closed with dissolvable sutures and a sterile bandage is applied.

Recovery Room

• After surgery, you are taken to a recovery room where you are closely monitored as you wake from anaesthesia.
• Pain relief is managed and you may be asked to walk a short distance soon after surgery to jump-start your recovery.