Endoscopic Micro Diskectomy

What is it?

This procedure, known as  endoscopic microdiskectomy, also is beneficial to sufferers of sciatica, a chronic, painful condition that can cause bursts of pain in the lower back that can radiate to the extremities. Endoscopic microdiskectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that offers several advantages to traditional open surgery including:

• A shorter recovery time, patients often go home hours after the procedure;
• Outpatient setting for procedure;
• Less invasive (no damage to muscle, bone or soft tissue) ; and,
• A faster return to work.

One of the biggest advantages of this procedure is muscle tissue is simply moved out of the way instead of cutting the muscle and retracting it.  In general, this results in less pain for the patient.

What causes a herniated disc?

Injury or trauma can cause a herniated disc.  When this happens, the softer, inner part of the vertebra bulge out of the hard disc.  This causes pressure on the nerve which leads to pain.

The Procedure

An endoscopic procedure requires only a small incision, which allows Dr.Rao to insert a scope (surgical microscope) into the site of repair.  The scope provides the ability to view the affected disc on a monitor and guide instruments through a small, hollow tube to repair. 

Dr.Rao will remove the inner portion of the vertebra from the lumbar (lower back region) of the spine.  Only the ruptured portion of the disc, which is causing the nerve to be pinched, is removed.

Once the portion is removed,  area is cleared, which allows the nerve to move into its normal position. The incision is closed using suture material or surgical staples, often times with just a Band-Aid. 

Am I Eligible?

Patients are first evaluated to determine the best course of treatment.  Factors such as the severity of your back pain and other lifestyle factors are considered. Things to be aware of are:

• Recurring buttock, groin, low back, or leg pain, numbness or weakness
   
• Pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, i.e. bed rest, pain medication, physical therapy, or muscle relaxants
   
• Herniated, prolapsed, or bulging discs confirmed by x-ray studies that may include one or more of the following:
  1. CAT Scan
  2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  3. Myelography

If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for this procedure, you can schedule an appointment online or by calling Dr.Rao at 925 691 1700.