A lumbar microdiscectomy is an operation for selected people with sciatica caused by a herniated disc pressing on a nerve. Its main aim is to relieve leg pain. It is not an operation to cure general lower back pain.
What happens?
The operation is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Through an incision in the lower back, Professor Bateman uses a microscope to see the nerve and remove the part of the disc pressing on it. The wound is then closed and you are monitored in recovery.
What are the alternatives?
Many disc prolapses improve without surgery. Depending on your symptoms, alternatives may include time, activity advice, medication, physiotherapy or a targeted injection.
What are the risks?
Leg pain may persist despite successful removal of the disc material. Other risks include infection, bleeding, injury to a nerve, a tear in the covering around the nerves with a fluid leak, a blood clot, and another disc prolapse later. General anaesthesia has its own risks.
What happens afterwards?
Recovery differs between patients. Leg pain may improve sooner than numbness or weakness. You will receive individual advice about walking, wound care, exercise, driving and returning to work.
Ask about a surgical assessment →
Detailed patient leaflet
Read Professor Bateman’s information leaflet before your procedure and bring any questions to your consultation.
Open the PDF leaflet →