Diskectomy

A discectomy, often spelled as "diskectomy," is a surgical procedure to remove material from a herniated disc in the spine. This herniation can compress surrounding nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness. The procedure aims to relieve these symptoms by removing the portion of the disc that is causing nerve compression. Here's a brief overview of the reasons for a discectomy, and its types:

Reasons for a Discectomy

  1. Herniated Disc: The most common reason is to relieve pressure caused by a herniated disc (also known as a slipped or ruptured disc).

  2. Sciatica: To alleviate sciatica, which is pain radiating along the sciatic nerve due to compression, often caused by a herniated disc.

  3. Nerve Compression: To relieve symptoms caused by nerve compression, such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.

  4. Conservative Treatment Failure: If non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections have failed to provide relief.

Types of Discectomy

  1. Open Discectomy: A traditional method where a small portion of the bone over the nerve root and/or disc material from under the nerve root is removed to relieve neural pressure.

  2. Microdiscectomy: A less invasive version of the open discectomy, using a microscope or magnifying instrument to view the disc and nerves. This technique involves a smaller incision and less tissue damage.

  3. Endoscopic Discectomy: Even less invasive, using an endoscope to guide the surgery. The endoscope is inserted through a very small incision, and the procedure is performed using video guidance.

  4. Laser Discectomy: A minimally invasive procedure where a laser is used to vaporize the part of the disc that's herniated.

  5. Automated Percutaneous Discectomy: A minimally invasive procedure using a small needle and a probe to remove disc material.

Each type of discectomy has its own advantages and suitability depending on the patient's condition, the extent of the disc herniation, and other medical factors. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to determine the most appropriate treatment option.