Microdiscectomy: The Basics
A ruptured disc is a serious injury that requires immediate medical care. Without professional guidance, you could end up making poor decisions that worsen your condition. Fortunately, most disc ruptures resolve gradually without the need for surgical intervention. But this isn’t always the case. There are times when surgery is required, such as if you’re facing these symptoms:
- Extreme pain
- Ongoing pain that’s not improving with treatment
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of bowel and/or bladder function
In today’s day and age, traditional open back surgery is no longer the only option. Instead, a microdiscectomy is generally the best approach. Here’s why:
- A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure: A small, band-aid incision is all that’s needed to remove the herniated disc.
- A microdiscectomy has an 85 to 95 percent success rate in relieving pain that radiates into the buttocks and/or legs.
- Immediate relief is common, but it may take up to eight weeks for complete relief (healing time varies by patient).
If you’re suffering from ongoing back and/or neck pain, don’t wait another day to consult with a medical professional. You may find that a microdiscectomy is just what you need to eliminate your pain and discomfort once and for all. Virginia Spine Specialists is an award-winning, minimally invasive spinal care practice with locations in Fredericksburg, VA and Manassas, VA. We also serve these Northern and Central Virginia locations: Haymarket, Gainesville, Culpepper, Front Royal, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Colonial Beach, Tappahannock and Lake Anna.
