How does a microdiscectomy differ from an endoscopic discectomy? Microdiscectomy uses an operating microscope for enhanced visualization and precision, while endoscopic discectomy uses a camera and monitor to perform the surgery with minimal incisions.

The success of microscopic endoscopic discectomy is greatly enhanced by a well-structured and compliant postoperative physical therapy program. By following a phased approach to rehabilitation, patients can achieve significant improvements in pain, disability, and overall function, while minimizing the risk of recurrence.

Microdiscectomy of the cervical spine is a highly successful surgery that helps to relieve symptoms of cervical radiculopathy. The type and approach of cervical microdiscectomy should be discussed with the spine surgeon.

Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to help relieve the pressure from pinched nerves known as sciatica or lumbar radiculopathy. Sciatica is most commonly caused by a prolapsed intervertebral disc .

Both open discectomy and microdiscectomy are effective surgical techniques for treating lumbar disc herniation. While OD has a shorter operation time, MD offers the benefits of being minimally invasive, resulting in less postoperative pain and faster recovery.

Intraoperative image of lumbar microdiscectomy surgery. Patients without cauda equina syndrome or with power sensory loss may benefit from minimally invasive techniques such as laser disc decompression.

Microdiscectomy surgery is a safe procedure when indicated in pregnant females. The complications from microdiscectomy are rare but extra care is needed both in diagnosis and surgery to prevent any side effects to the growing fetus.

The standard surgical procedure is open microdiscectomy, but percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) is a less invasive alternative. PTED is performed as outpatient surgery under local anesthesia, but its adoption is limited due to challenges such as the learning curve and unclear advantages over conventional microdiscectomy.

The microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that may be performed in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. The lumbar fusion surgery on the other hand is performed under general anesthesia.

While microdiscectomy is a standard treatment for herniated discs, nucleoplasty is a novel minimally invasive technique to decompress small bulging of the intervertebral disc. Both the procedures result in relief from discogenic pain and radiculopathy.