A targeted operation to remove the portion of a herniated disc that is pressing on a spinal nerve
Most commonly performed in the lumbar spine for sciatica — leg pain, numbness, or weakness caused by nerve compression
Recommended when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment such as medication, physical therapy, or injections, or when there is progressive weakness
Performed through a small incision using an operating microscope; only the herniated fragment is removed, and the rest of the disc is preserved
One of the most reliable operations in spine surgery, with high rates of leg pain relief
Typically an outpatient or overnight procedure, with most patients walking the same day
