Sciatica pain can be unbearable, affecting your daily life and mobility. For many people, this sharp, radiating pain results from a herniated disc putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Conventional treatments like physical therapy and medications can help. However, they don’t always provide long-term relief. Microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive procedure, is an effective solution that can relieve sciatica pain and restore quality of life.
Dr. Todd Albert, Surgeon-in-Chief Emeritus at the Hospital for Special Surgery and Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, regularly performs this surgery to help patients overcome sciatica pain and feel their best. Learn more about the benefits of microdiscectomy below.
What is Microdiscectomy?
Microdiscectomy removes the part of a herniated disc that is pressing on nearby nerves, particularly the sciatic nerve. The goal is to relieve pressure, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
Unlike traditional open surgery, microdiscectomy involves a smaller incision and less disruption to surrounding tissues. This means patients often experience faster recovery times and less post-surgical pain.
This procedure is generally recommended for individuals whose sciatica symptoms have persisted despite non-surgical treatments.
The Benefits of Microdiscectomy for Sciatica Relief
Microdiscectomy offers many benefits for those suffering from sciatica:
1. Quick Relief
One of the main advantages of microdiscectomy is the potential for rapid pain relief. Many patients experience significant reductions in pain within days or weeks following the procedure.
By removing the part of the disc that’s causing nerve compression, the body can begin healing. The sciatic pain often diminishes soon after that.
2. Minimally Invasive
Traditional back surgeries often involve large incisions. However, microdiscectomy is performed using a small incision, usually only 1-1.5 inches long.
This approach results in less damage to surrounding muscles and tissues. That means a quicker recovery, reduced scarring, and less post-operative pain.
3. Improved Mobility
Sciatica can make everyday activities feel impossible. After a microdiscectomy, though, many patients regain their mobility.
With less pain and discomfort, individuals can return to normal activities, such as walking, bending, and sitting, much sooner than with traditional surgery.
4. High Success Rate
Microdiscectomy has a high success rate – 70-90%. It is especially beneficial for individuals with herniated discs that cause sciatica.
Studies show that most patients experience considerable pain relief and improved function after the procedure.
Schedule a Consultation in New York
Microdiscectomy offers an effective solution for those suffering from sciatica due to a herniated disc. With its fast recovery time, high success rate, and ability to provide rapid relief, this procedure can help you regain your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with persistent sciatica pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Todd Albert today. Call us at 212-606-1004 or book an appointment online.