Minimally Invasive Discectomy

A spinal disc is made of an inner jelly-like substance covered by a tough outer shell that keeps the disc from drying out and retaining its shock-absorbing function. The disc can dry out and weaken with age and injury, causing the jelly-like center to bulge and compress the nerve roots (large nerves that leave the spinal cord to innervate the extremities, arms, and legs). A bulging or herniated disc can compress nerve roots and sometimes compress the spinal cord, causing pain, tingling, weakness, and dysfunction.

A discectomy is indicated when the patient is experiencing severe pain, numbness, and weakness that interferes with daily activities and quality of life; when conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, and injections have failed to alleviate symptoms, and there is MRI or CT scan evidence of nerve damage or severe nerve compression caused by a herniated disc. Emergency surgery is indicated for patients with lumbar disc herniation who have foot drop or profound neurological compromise, cauda equina syndrome, or loss of bowel and bladder control.

A minimally invasive discectomy is performed using specialized instruments and techniques that allow Dr. Ball to access the spine through a small incision. Once the disc is accessed, he uses dilators to create a tunnel to the spine, avoiding the need to cut through muscle and soft tissues. Using a microscope or endoscope for visualization, the portion of the disc herniated and compressing a nerve is removed.

Minimally invasive discectomy is often performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day. Compared to traditional open surgery, the minimally invasive approach promotes faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and a quicker return to normal activities.

Studies have shown that pain relief and functional improvement outcomes are comparable to open surgery, with the added benefits of reduced surgical risks and complications. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days and fully recover within a few weeks.

Minimally invasive discectomy is a valuable surgical option for treating herniated discs, especially in patients who have not responded to non-surgical treatments. It combines the efficacy of traditional surgery with reduced trauma to the soft tissues and muscles, promoting a faster and less painful recovery process.