Microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain and other symptoms caused by a herniated spinal disc that presses on surrounding nerve roots (pinched nerve). During surgery, the surgeon frees the nerve by removing small fragments of the disc, bone, or ligament that are compressing it.
This procedure is classified as minimally invasive because it only requires a small incision and the use of a surgical microscope or special magnifying glasses (loupes) to enlarge the surgical area. Surgeons also use small-sized instruments to operate within the limited space of the spine.
At Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, microdiscectomy and other minimally invasive procedures for pinched nerves are performed by dr. Christian Permana, Sp.BS, FTB, FINSS, FICS, an experienced neurosurgeon.
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When is Microdiscectomy Recommended?
Microdiscectomy is usually considered if:
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Non-surgical treatment fails
Patients have tried conservative therapies such as physiotherapy, cortisone injections, or medications for 6 to 12 weeks, but the pain does not improve.
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Symptoms interfere with daily activities
Persistent pain, tingling, or numbness disrupts normal activities and quality of life.
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Muscle weakness develops
Prolonged nerve compression may lead to weakness in the legs or other body parts, requiring faster surgical intervention.
How is Microdiscectomy Performed?
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery that can be performed using different techniques to access the affected nerve and disc:
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Midline Microdiscectomy
A small vertical incision (about 2–5 cm) is made in the back. The surrounding muscles are gently lifted and held aside to clearly expose the surgical area.
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Tubular Microdiscectomy
A series of small tubes (dilators) are inserted through a small incision to create a pathway to the nerve. This method reduces disruption to surrounding muscles.
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Endoscopic Microdiscectomy
An even smaller incision is made, and a tiny camera (endoscope) along with special instruments are used to remove the disc fragment pressing on the nerve. This technique further minimizes disruption to nearby tissues.
Benefits of Microdiscectomy for Pinched Nerves
Compared to traditional open discectomy, microdiscectomy offers several advantages:
- Less post-operative pain: Smaller incisions and reduced tissue damage result in less pain after surgery.
- Lower risk of infection: A smaller wound heals faster, reducing the risk of infection and complications.
- Faster recovery: Patients can return to daily activities, including work or light exercise, much sooner than with open surgery.
- Improved quality of life: Reduced pain and restored mobility allow patients to resume normal activities without the constant burden of a pinched nerve.
Microdiscectomy Treatment at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
At Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, microdiscectomy is performed by dr. Christian Permana, a neurosurgeon with extensive expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery.
One successful case involved a patient with a pinched nerve at two spinal levels, L4-L5 and L5-S1. The microdiscectomy procedure effectively released the compressed nerves caused by scar tissue.
Following surgery, the patient showed significant improvement. Radiating leg pain gradually subsided, stiff muscles became more relaxed, and physiotherapist assessments confirmed reduced nerve tension.
Other Minimally Invasive Treatments by dr. Christian Permana
In addition to microdiscectomy, dr. Christian also performs other minimally invasive procedures for pinched nerves, such as:
- Percutaneous Laser Disc Decompression (PLDD)
- Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD)
- Percutaneous Stenoscopic Lumbar Decompression (PSLD)
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Doctor’s Schedule at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
You can consult with dr. Christian Permana, Sp.BS, FTB, FINSS, FICS at the following times:
- Tuesday: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Thursday: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Friday: 1 PM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 1 PM – 5 PM
For your convenience, Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital provides appointment booking via WhatsApp Chat, Book Appointment service, or the Care Dokter app, available on Google Play and the App Store. These features make it easy to schedule visits, check queue numbers, and access complete hospital information.
