What is the difference between a Microdiscectomy and a laminectomy?
While microdiscectomy surgery is performed to remove the herniated intervertebral disc, laminectomy surgery is usually performed to increase the space of the neural foramen. The spinal cord runs from the lower part of the brain and ends around the lower border of the L1/L2 vertebrae.
Is laminectomy a major surgery?
Laminectomy is a common but major surgery with significant risks and potential complications. You may have less invasive treatment options available. Consider getting a second opinion about all of your treatment choices before having a laminectomy. When laminectomy involves one vertebra, it is called single level.
How long is recovery from laminectomy and discectomy?
Complete recovery may take 4 to 6 weeks or a few months after a lumbar laminectomy depending on the age and general health of the patient and the number of segments treated.
Is a Foraminotomy the same as a laminectomy?
A foraminotomy is a surgical procedure designed to lower pressure within the spinal canal by enlarging the passageway through which a spinal nerve root branches from the spinal canal. A laminectomy is a procedure to remove a greater portion of the bone (lamina) covering the roof of the spinal canal.
Is a Microdiscectomy an outpatient procedure?
A microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive outpatient spine surgery offered at UPMC. This procedure treats patients with “pinched” nerves in the spinal column caused by herniated or ruptured discs. Ruptured discs can apply pressure to nerves, causing: Pain and weakness of the legs.
Are you intubated for Microdiscectomy?
This procedure is performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be totally sedated, be unconscious and feel no pain. Your breathing will be controlled by the anesthesiologist, by insertion of a tube into your trachea (windpipe) called intubation.
How many hours does a laminectomy surgery take?
A laminectomy is a procedure which involves removing bone of the vertebrae to allow for more space for the nerves. It relieves pressure on the nerves and decreases symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain and weakness. Surgery will last approximately 2 to 3 hours. You will be in the hospital approximately 3 days.
Why does my leg still hurt after Microdiscectomy?
Most patients notice that it is much improved but there is still some aching in the leg because the nerve has a “memory” for the pain and remains slightly irritable. This usually resolves within a matter of weeks. The numbness usually resolves over weeks or months as the nerve recovers.
What is the recovery time for a discectomy?
The surgery requires a short stay in the clinic (1 to 3 days) and a gradual recovery between 1 and 6 weeks. However, the technology has advanced and it can be performed by ‘ Endoscopic Micro Discectomy” with the patient able to continue their normal life in two days.
What is Micro disk surgery?
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed in an outpatient setting. A very small incision is made in the skin and tiny tube-shaped implements are inserted all the way in until they reach the disc. The entire surgery takes place through the implements.
What is micro back surgery?
Simply defined, micro back surgery involves cutting with small incisions into the back to remove a small section of the bone that is pressing on a nerve resulting in the recurring pain.
What is microscopic back surgery?
Microscopic back surgery is performed via high-powered microscopes that are not limited to the scope of the endoscopic camera, thereby affording a greater visual field while still minimizing disruption to the soft tissue.