An interlaminar lumbar microendoscopic discectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain from irritated nerve roots that are pressed upon by herniated disc tissue. Herniated discs occur when there is a tear in a spinal disc. Disc material comes out, pushing against nerve roots.
Before the procedure, anesthesia is administered and the patient is positioned lying face down. After the surgeon uses a portable X-ray machine to confirm the location of the protruded disc, they will use a minimally invasive procedure to make a small incision close to the spine. A dilator is passed through the incision, followed by a very thin tube known as a cannula, creating a working channel for the surgeon to insert a tiny HD camera, allowing a clear view of the area.
The next step is creating a small hole in the ligaments covering the rear of the spinal canal to allow the surgeon access to the herniated discs. After gently pushing any nerve roots away from the herniated disc, the herniated portion is removed and the disc is treated to prevent any future herniation.
Once the surgeon confirms that the disc is no longer pressing on any nerve roots, all tools and the cannula are removed. A small bandage is then placed over the incision. Patients are often able to return home the same day, resuming normal routines within one to six weeks.