A lumbar microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pressure on spinal nerves caused by a herniated disc in the lower back (lumbar spine). When a disc herniates, its inner gel-like material can protrude through the outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves and resulting in pain, weakness, or numbness in the leg, commonly referred to as sciatica.

Types of procedures

• Traditional Microdiscectomy:
  This method utilizes a microscope or loupes to view and remove the herniated disc material through a small incision.
• Endoscopic Microdiscectomy:
  In this approach, an endoscope (a thin tube equipped with a camera) may be used instead of a microscope, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure through an even smaller incision. The endoscope provides visualization of the area, facilitating the removal of the herniated disc material.
• Percutaneous Microdiscectomy:
  This technique involves using specialized instruments to extract the herniated disc material through a series of tubes inserted through the skin. It is minimally invasive and requires specific training and expertise to perform.