At University Pain and Spine Center, we specialize in lumbar discectomy procedures to relieve chronic back pain caused by herniated discs. Whether your pain is minor or severe, our qualified and friendly staff is here to help you return to a pain-free life.
A lumbar discectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery designed to relieve pain caused by herniated discs pressing on nerve roots in your lower back. This advanced procedure is performed through a small tubular device under local or epidural anesthesia, allowing most patients to leave the same day. Unlike traditional open surgery, our endoscopic approach requires no cutting of bone or muscle, resulting in faster recovery and minimal scarring.
At University Pain and Spine Center, we are experienced specialists in advanced, minimally invasive procedures. Our team understands the complexities and small details that can make the difference between success and failure. Our lumbar discectomy procedure targets disc protrusion with precision and care, helping you:
Once a disc protrusion is confirmed through MRI or CT imaging, our procedure begins with precision and care.
We insert a guide wire into the affected disc using a specialized X-ray machine called a fluoroscope. This ensures pinpoint accuracy and minimizes risk to surrounding tissues.
A dilating tube is passed over the guide wire, gradually creating space to reach the herniated disc. Any painful tissue along the path is anesthetized to ensure minimal discomfort during the procedure.
The surgeon carefully slides a working sleeve over the dilating tube, positioning it directly on the disc surface. A small specialized camera called an endoscope is inserted through the sleeve, allowing the surgeon to view the disc and surrounding epidural space on a high-definition video monitor.
Using precise visualization, the surgeon removes only the degenerative portions of the disc necessary to reduce internal pressure while maintaining spine stability. The disc wall defect is then treated with a laser and radiofrequency probe to promote healing.
The surrounding vertebrae and nerves are carefully inspected to confirm successful decompression and nerve relief.
After the surgery is complete, all instruments and the sleeve are removed, and the site is covered with a small bandage. Because the procedure involves no bone or muscle cutting, you can typically go home the same day.
Because our minimally invasive lumbar discectomy technique doesn’t involve cutting bone or muscle, recovery is significantly faster than traditional spine surgery.
Most patients are discharged the same day following their lumbar discectomy procedure. You’ll need a brief period of bed rest, typically 1-2 days, and will experience minimal post-operative pain compared to traditional open spine surgery.
Light activities can usually resume within 1-2 weeks, while patients with desk jobs typically return to work in 2-3 weeks. Full activity resumption occurs between 1-6 weeks, depending on your individual healing and activity level, and physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen your core and support long-term spine health.
If you’re suffering from chronic back pain due to a herniated disc, visit the University Pain and Spine Center today. Our team of specialists will explore the best treatment options to get you back to a pain-free life. Don’t let back pain hold you back. Schedule your consultation now!
Ready to Start Your Recovery? You can call (732) 873-6868. Thank you!
