What Is A Percutaneous Discectomy?
A Percutaneous Discectomy is a needle-based procedure used to treat pain caused as a result of disc herniations, or disruptions, by removing (or treating) the herniated portions of the spinal disc while leaving the remaining portions of the disc intact. By treating the herniated portions of the disc, the spinal nerves associated with pain and numbness are relieved.
How is a Percutaneous Discectomy Performed?
This Minimally Invasive procedure utilizes only a small needle and a cannula and therefore does not require a large incision or muscle dissection. This procedure is often performed under local anesthesia and takes less than 30 minutes to complete.
First, a small needle is inserted in the area of the disc herniation. Next, a cannula is inserted down into the area of the disc herniation(s). Once the correct position of the cannula is confirmed via fluoroscope (real-time X-ray), small surgical tools are inserted into the cannula to remove the herniated portions of the spinal disc. Once the spinal nerve is decompressed, the cannula is removed and the area is covered with a bandage.
A Percutaneous Discectomy can be performed on an outpatient basis due to the reduced trauma to the spine and muscular structures. In fact, most patients are up and walking shortly after this procedure and physical therapy will begin within a few days of the procedure, if needed.