Microdiskectomy

During a microdiskectomy, some disk is removed. In most cases, bone must first be removed to expose the damaged disk. The part of the disk outer wall and soft center that presses on the nerve can then be removed. There is usually enough disk remaining to cushion the vertebrae.

Before Your Surgery

You will most likely arrive at the hospital on the morning of the surgery. Be sure to follow all of your doctor's instructions on preparing for surgery.

• You should stop eating or drinking 10 hours before surgery.

• If you take a daily medication, ask if you should still take it the morning of surgery.

• At the hospital, your temperature, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure will be checked.

• An IV (intravenous) line may be started to provide fluids and medications needed during surgery.

During Your Surgery

• Once in the operating room, you'll be given anesthesia.

• After you are asleep, an incision is made near the center of your low back. Your incision may be 2 to 6 inches long, depending on how many vertebrae are involved.

• In most cases, bone is removed from the vertebrae above and below the pinched nerve to expose the damaged disk. Removing bone may also take pressure off the pinched nerve.

• During microdiskectomy, part of the disk outer wall and soft center that is pressing on the nerve is removed.

• Once the nerve is free of pressure, the incision is closed with stitches or surgical staples.

After Your Surgery

After surgery, you'll be sent to the PACU (postanesthesia care unit). When you are fully awake, you'll be moved to your room. The nurses will give you medications to ease your pain. You may have a catheter (small tube) in your bladder. Soon, health care providers will help you get up and moving. You'll also be shown how to clear your lungs.