Lumbar Microdiscectomy – Herniated Disc Treatment in Connecticut
What is Lumbar Microdiscectomy?
A lumbar microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a herniated disc in the lower back (lumbar spine). When a herniated or slipped disc places pressure on adjacent nerve roots, it can cause debilitating leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness – symptoms commonly associated with sciatica. Lumbar microdiscectomy removes only the portion of the herniated disc that is compressing the nerve, relieving pain and restoring function.
At Connecticut Back Center in Vernon, CT, board-certified spine surgeon Dr. Jesse Eisler, MD, PhD, performs lumbar microdiscectomy using a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques. This approach allows for precise, limited dissection with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue. We serve patients throughout Greater Hartford, Manchester, South Windsor, Glastonbury, Tolland, East Hartford, and the greater Central Connecticut area.
Herniated Disc Symptoms
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in its outer layer, pressing on nearby nerve roots. Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the herniation and may include:
- Sharp, shooting, or burning pain radiating from the lower back into the leg or foot
- Numbness or tingling in the leg, calf, or foot
- Muscle weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing
- In severe cases, bowel or bladder changes – seek immediate care if this occurs
Herniated Disc vs. Bulging Disc
A bulging disc extends beyond its normal boundary but the outer layer remains intact. A herniated disc has a tear or rupture in the outer layer, allowing the inner disc material to push through and directly contact nearby nerve tissue. Herniated discs tend to cause more acute nerve-related symptoms and may be more likely to require surgical intervention when conservative treatment does not provide relief.
Dr. Eisler will review your imaging and evaluate your symptoms to determine whether you have a herniated disc, a bulging disc, or another condition – and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
What to Expect – Lumbar Microdiscectomy Recovery
Lumbar microdiscectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients go home the same day. Patients are generally up and walking in the hospital on the day of surgery.
You will receive a personalized postsurgical recovery and exercise plan to support your return to normal activity. Recovery timelines vary based on the individual, but many patients experience significant relief from leg pain soon after surgery. A structured physical therapy program is often recommended as part of recovery to rebuild core strength and support long-term spinal health.
As with any surgical procedure, risks exist – including infection, blood loss, and in rare cases bowel or bladder complications. Dr. Eisler will review all risks, precautions, and recovery expectations with you prior to surgery so you can make a fully informed decision.
Is Lumbar Microdiscectomy Right for You?
Surgery is not the first step. Most patients with a herniated disc improve with conservative treatment such as physical therapy, lumbar traction/spinal decompression, and epidural steroid injections. Lumbar microdiscectomy is typically considered when:
- Conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief after a reasonable period
- Leg pain or nerve symptoms are significantly impacting daily function
- Imaging confirms a herniated disc that is compressing a nerve root
- Neurological deficits such as weakness are present or worsening
