At Spire Clare Park Hospital in Farnham, Surrey, we have experienced orthopaedic surgeons who carry out discectomy procedures routinely. They work within our laminar flow theatres to reduce the risk of infection. With the support of our physiotherapists, you will be up and about and ready to go home within a matter of days. Ask your GP for a referral to the orthopaedic team Spire Clare Park Hospital. Alternatively, contact the customer services team for more information.
About discectomy
A discectomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure which is performed from the back with the patient lying on their front or side. The skin and underlying muscles are cut to expose the back of the spine. Small amounts of bone and ligament are removed until a big enough window is achieved to safely pull the nerve root to one side. The prolapsed material is then removed. Any loose fragments in the disc space are also removed. The amount of material usually represents about 20% of the disc. The rest of the disc is left in place. Nothing is placed in the disc to fill the space. The nerve is then replaced in its proper position.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and generally takes about 1 hour. You will be in hospital between 1 to 3 days and will mobilse after surgery with the aid of a physiotherapist. The wound takes about 2 weeks to heal and you will need to be off work between 2 weeks and 2 months depending upon your activity and type of work.