Microdiscectomy — Procedure Guide, Recovery & Risks | MyMedicPlus

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spinal procedure that removes herniated disc material pressing on a lumbar nerve root, typically at L4–L5 or L5–S1, using microscope magnification through a small 2–3 cm incision.

Indicated for lumbar disc herniation with radiculopathy (sciatica) unresponsive to 6 weeks of conservative treatment, or urgent surgery for cauda equina syndrome, progressive neurological deficit, or intractable pain.

A 2–3 cm midline incision exposes the lumbar spine. Paraspinal muscles are retracted. Under microscope visualisation, a small laminotomy window accesses the disc space and the herniated fragment is removed with a rongeur.

Most patients go home the same day or the following morning. Walking begins on the day of surgery. Driving is permitted at 2–4 weeks. Return to desk work in 2–4 weeks; manual labour in 6–8 weeks; no twisting for 6 weeks.

Risks include dural tear with CSF leak (2–5%), nerve root injury, recurrent disc herniation at the same level (5–10%), surgical site infection, epidural haematoma, and failure to relieve leg pain if nerve damage is permanent.

90% of patients achieve excellent or good relief of leg pain (sciatica) within 6–12 weeks. Back pain improvement is less predictable. Overall patient satisfaction exceeds 85% at 1 year post-procedure.