Lumbar Discectomy
A lumbar discectomy is a spinal procedure used to relieve pressure on a nerve in the lower back. It is commonly performed for leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by a lumbar disc herniation.
Understanding the Procedure
What is a Lumbar Discectomy?
A lumbar discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the portion of a damaged or herniated disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve.
The operation is performed through a small incision in the lower back using microsurgical techniques. By removing the disc material causing nerve compression, pressure is relieved and symptoms improve.
Lumbar discectomy is one of the most commonly performed procedures for sciatica caused by a lumbar disc herniation.
Indications
When is this Procedure Recommended?
A lumbar discectomy may be recommended when a compressed nerve in the lower back is causing significant symptoms that have not improved with non-surgical treatment.
Common reasons include:
- Sciatica (leg pain caused by nerve compression)
- Weakness in the leg or foot drop
- Lumbar disc herniation
- Difficulty walking or standing due to nerve pain
- Progressive neurological symptoms
The Procedure
What Happens During Surgery?
- A small incision is made in the lower back.
- Microsurgical instruments are used to access the affected nerve.
- The herniated portion of the disc is identified and removed.
- Pressure is relieved from the affected nerve root.
- The wound is closed and a dressing is applied.
- Most procedures take approximately 1–2 hours.
Related Conditions
Benefits
Potential Benefits
The goal of surgery is to relieve nerve compression and improve function.
Potential benefits include:
- Relief of leg pain (sciatica)
- Improvement in numbness and tingling
- Recovery of strength
- Improved walking tolerance
- Improved sleep and daily function
Recovery varies between individuals and depends partly on the severity and duration of nerve compression before surgery.
After the procedure
Recovery After Surgery
Most patients spend one night in hospital and return home once they are walking comfortably and pain is controlled.
Some discomfort around the incision is expected during the first few weeks and is usually managed with oral pain medication. Many patients notice improvement in leg pain shortly after surgery, although nerve recovery may continue for several months.
Walking is encouraged from the first day after surgery. Heavy lifting, repetitive bending and strenuous activity should be avoided during the early recovery period.
A consultation with a spine physiotherapist before surgery can help prepare for recovery. Physiotherapy often commences around 4 weeks after surgery and focuses on mobility, confidence, strength, and return to normal activity.
Driving can usually resume once pain is controlled and clearance has been provided by your surgeon.
Many patients return to office-based work within 2–4 weeks. More physically demanding occupations may require additional time.
Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled at 2 weeks and 6 weeks after surgery.
Potential Complications
Risks and Complications
All surgery carries risks. Potential complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Anaesthetic complications
- Persistent symptoms
- Recurrent disc herniation
- Nerve injury
- Cerebrospinal fluid leak
Your surgeon will discuss risks relevant to your individual circumstances.
Considering Surgery for Sciatica or a Lumbar Disc Herniation?
Our team can help determine whether surgery is appropriate and discuss all available treatment options.
