A microdiscectomy (sometimes spelled microdiskectomy) is a minimally invasive spine surgery. It is sometimes called herniated disc surgery. Surgeons use it to fix herniated or ruptured discs.
Fixing the disks can alleviate pain from compressed (pinched) nerves in your spinal column. During the procedure, your surgeon removes all or parts of the damaged disc. Removing the disc relieves pressure on your spinal nerves, relieving symptoms and restoring quality of life.
Microdiscectomy surgery is also known as herniated disc surgery. It is a minimally invasive spine surgery that treats compressed (pinched) nerves in the spinal column. Compressed nerves are often caused by herniated or ruptured discs. The microdisectomy surgery removes all or part of the damaged disc.
The discs provide a cushion between the vertebrae (bones in your spine). When a disc becomes damaged, it can bulge, tear, or leak. This damage can squeeze your spinal nerves, leading to pain and other symptoms.
A microdiscectomy is a safe, less-invasive alternative to traditional procedures. It may promote a faster recovery with less discomfort. Your surgeon will use small surgical instruments and a microscope during the procedure. They carefully remove all or part of your damaged disc through a one-inch incision in your back.
A microdiscectomy procedure is a major surgery, so following your surgeon's instructions is essential. However, it is a minimally invasive and common spine procedure. It can help to reduce pain and other symptoms while restoring your quality of life.
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive treatment to relieve symptoms of compressed spinal nerves. Surgeons name the different types of microdiscectomy procedures based on the location of the surgery.
Procedures include:
The main condition treated using a microdiscectomy is nerve compression due to a herniated disc.
You may need a microdiscectomy procedure if you have a herniated disc. It can help relieve pain or other symptoms caused by compressed spinal nerves.
Herniated disc symptoms may get better with nonsurgical care. It is vital to try nonsurgical treatment before considering surgery. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may say you need surgery right away.
You may be a candidate for microdiscectomy if your symptoms don't get better with nonsurgical care.
Symptoms of a herniated disc include:
If you cannot have a minimally invasive microdiscectomy, your surgeon may recommend a traditional open discectomy procedure. Other alternatives to microdiscectomy include nonsurgical care to manage symptoms.
Nonsurgical options include:
As with any surgery, microdiscectomy surgery comes with some risks.
Possible complications include:
Microdiscectomy is a safe and successful procedure for most people. It's possible that your symptoms may not improve after surgery. In some cases, you may need more surgery to treat existing symptoms or other problems that develop in the future.
Before surgery, you will meet with your surgical team and have a physical exam. Your surgical team may order tests.
Pre-surgery tests include:
Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and answer your questions. To prepare for the procedure, you should:
On the day of your procedure, bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s). Leave valuables such as cash and jewelry at home.
After your procedure, you may need to stay in the hospital or get discharged the same day, depending on your doctor's assessment. Most patients can safely return home the same day, but your doctor will tell you what to expect.
If you stay overnight, you should bring toiletries, a robe, slippers, a cell phone and charger, medicines, and a change of clothes. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital after the care team discharges you.
A microdiscectomy takes one to two hours, depending on your condition and the type of procedure performed.
When you arrive at the hospital, you will meet with your care team for final preparations.
Depending on your doctor's assessment, you may receive an IV with general anesthesia or get local anesthesia.
If you receive general anesthesia, you will be asleep for the procedure. If you receive local anesthesia, you will be awake but feel no pain.
After you receive anesthesia, your surgeon will:
After your procedure, your surgeon will close your incision and make sure your condition is stable.
After your procedure, your care team will monitor you in the recovery area. Your doctor will let you know if it is safe for you to go home or if you need to spend a night in the hospital. You will need someone to drive you home from the hospital after they discharge you.
Before you go home, your doctor will tell you:
It can take up to three months to fully recover after a microdiscectomy, depending on your condition, the extent of your surgery, and your overall health. Your doctor will talk to you about your expected recovery time.
You will have general or local anesthesia during your procedure, so you will not feel any pain. After the procedure, your incision may feel sore for a few days. It can also take several days for the pain caused by your herniated disc to go away.
You should let your surgeon know if you have:
Most people can live full and active lives after microdiscectomy surgery. However, your doctor may recommend that you avoid certain strenuous activities.
The success rate for microdiscectomy depends on many factors, including your overall health, the location of your herniated disc, and the severity of your symptoms. Your doctor will discuss the expected success rate of your procedure with you.
UPMC surgeons use the least invasive, most effective approach to treat all types of spinal nerve disorders, including those caused by herniated discs. Our team has pioneered some of the latest approaches to microdiscectomy surgery using advanced devices and techniques — promoting safer surgeries, improved outcomes, and enhanced quality of life.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-06-26.
