Discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a damaged portion of an intervertebral disc. This alleviates pressure on spinal nerve roots often associated with lumbar disc herniation.
Purpose of a Discectomy
The primary purpose of a discectomy is to relieve pain and other symptoms caused by a herniated or damaged disc pressing on nearby nerves. According to information available as of April 16, 2024, this procedure is commonly associated with lumbar disc herniation.
How Discectomy Works
- Targeted Removal: The surgeon removes only the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve.
- Decompression: By removing the problematic disc fragment, the pressure on the nerve is relieved.
- Symptom Relief: Reduced pressure on the nerve leads to a decrease in pain, numbness, weakness, or other associated symptoms.
Types of Discectomy
While the core principle remains the same, discectomy can be performed using different techniques:
- Open Discectomy: This involves a larger incision to access the spine and remove the disc fragment.
- Microdiscectomy: This technique uses a smaller incision and a microscope to visualize and remove the disc fragment.
- Endoscopic Discectomy: This minimally invasive approach utilizes an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to guide the surgeon.
Conditions Treated by Discectomy
Discectomy is typically considered when conservative treatments (such as physical therapy, medication, and injections) fail to provide adequate relief. It is commonly used to treat:
- Herniated Discs: A condition where the soft inner portion of the disc protrudes through the outer layer, pressing on nerves.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: While not always the primary treatment, discectomy may be considered in specific cases of degenerative disc disease where nerve compression is a significant issue.
In summary
Discectomy is a surgical solution designed to alleviate nerve compression caused by damaged or herniated discs, offering relief from associated pain and neurological symptoms.
