A microdiscectomy removes the piece of herniated disc pressing on a nerve, through a small incision. It is the most common surgery for sciatica from a herniated disc. Leg pain often improves quickly, but recovery takes weeks and the disc can herniate again.
What happens
- General anaesthetic, small incision in the back
- The surgeon removes the disc fragment pressing on the nerve
- Many people go home the same day or the next day
Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Recovery
- Walking from day one
- Desk work often after 2 to 4 weeks
- Heavy lifting and sport after several weeks, guided by the surgeon
Risks
- Re-herniation in a minority of patients
- Infection, bleeding, nerve injury, dural tear (uncommon)
- Back pain can continue even when leg pain improves
Alternatives to try first
If you have no red flags, you may be able to try physiotherapy, an epidural, PRP or stem cells first. See do I need disc surgery?
