Spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, disc herniation, and other such conditions lead to spinal nerve compression. The compression of the spinal nerve roots leads to neck and/or back pain with symptoms that radiate into the arms and legs. Dr. Salari performs minimally invasive surgeries like microdiscectomy in Morristown to decompress the nerve roots and alleviate the symptoms of nerve compression.
Spinal nerve decompression in Morristown
What is Microdiscectomy/discectomy?
Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spine surgery where specialized instruments, such as a surgical microscope, are used to decompress the pinched nerve roots. The surgeon uses special retractors to spread the muscles around the spinal to access the disc and vertebrae. Furthermore, the surgery is performed via a small “band-aid” incision so the downtime is minimal.
The necessity of Microdiscectomy/discectomy
Microdiscectomy/discectomy is for patients with disc herniation, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and other spinal conditions that cause nerve compression. These conditions pinch or compress the spinal nerves, leading to neck and/or back pain with symptoms that spread into the legs/arms. Nerve compression can also cause pain, weakness, numbness, tingling sensations, and other neurologic symptoms.
However, it’s worth highlighting that a microdiscectomy is generally reserved as a last-resort solution. Your surgeon will recommend microdiscectomy/discectomy in Morristown if all non-operative solutions and treatments fail to yield the desired results or if the symptoms of nerve compression continue worsening.
Benefits of Microdiscectomy:
- Performed via a small incision
- Minimal muscle and soft tissue disruption
- Minimal loss of blood during the procedure
- Minimal post-treatment pain and discomfort
- Same Day surgery
Your Microdiscectomy Surgery
Dr. Salari generally performs microdiscectomy in Morristown under general anesthesia. After cleansing your back, the surgeon makes a small incision on the skin to guide the special microsurgical instruments through. The surgery is performed under fluoroscopy guidance so the surgeon can visualize the level of surgical decompression. The surgeon uses a microsurgical retractor and narrow instruments to spread the soft tissues around the spinal column, thereby accessing the underlying structures.
The surgeon makes a small bone window to access the pinched nerve within the spinal canal. After shifting the pinched nerve to the side the surgeon shields it using specialized tools. Depending on your unique condition, the herniated disc is removed, or the ruptured parts of the disc are removed. The nerve is probed to ensure there are no other problems, and the incision is closed with absorbable sutures and surgical glue.
After the microdiscectomy in Morristown, you are moved into the recovery room, where you are monitored by the medical team. Patients can return home on the day of the procedure. Your surgeon will also provide specific guidelines for your pain medications, restrictions, and recovery. You must follow his instructions precisely to ensure a smooth, safe, and speedy recovery without complications.
Microdiscectomy FAQs
How is a microdiscectomy different from traditional open-back surgery?
Microdiscectomy is minimally invasive and utilizes specialized instruments and a smaller incision, resulting in less tissue damage and quicker recovery compared to traditional open back surgery, which involves a larger incision and more extensive tissue manipulation.
How long does a microdiscectomy procedure typically take?
The duration of a discectomy in Morristown procedure depends on the complexity of the case. Generally, a microdiscectomy takes approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete.
What is the expected recovery time following a microdiscectomy?
Recovery time after a microdiscectomy varies from patient to patient, but it’s typically swifter than the recovery after traditional open back surgery. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days to a week and gradually increase their activity level over several weeks.
Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
Physical therapy may be essential after a microdiscectomy to help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and facilitate recovery. The extent and duration of physical therapy will depend on individual factors.
How soon can I expect relief from pain and other symptoms after the surgery?
Many patients experience immediate relief from nerve-related pain and symptoms following a microdiscectomy in Morristown. However, it’s common for some residual discomfort or soreness to persist initially, with gradual improvement over the following weeks as the body heals. Full resolution of symptoms may take several weeks to months.
Contact Dr. Salari for microdiscectomy/discectomy
Dr. Ben Salari is the leading board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery in New Jersey. He always performs thorough imaging to identify the root cause of your problem and curate personalized treatment plans. He always starts your treatment with non-operative solutions and progresses to minimally invasive surgery if your neurologic symptoms continue.
For more information about spine surgery in Morristown, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Salari at our offices in Morristown, Randolph, Sparta, and Hackettstown New Jersey.
