Discectomy

Before surgery, the spine specialist evaluates the patient's symptoms and confirms the diagnosis. The evaluation may include: Physical and neurological examination, MRI or CT scan, Blood tests, ECG and anaesthesia fitness assessment. Patients are generally advised to: Follow fasting instructions before surgery, Inform the doctor about medications and allergies, Stop blood-thinning medicines if advised, Arrange support during the recovery period.

On the day of surgery, the patient receives general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision over the affected area of the spine and carefully removes the portion of the damaged disc compressing the nerve while preserving as much healthy disc tissue as possible. The incision is then closed with sutures or surgical glue. The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours, depending on the location and complexity of the disc problem.

After surgery, the patient is monitored until the effects of anaesthesia wear off. Most patients are encouraged to walk within a few hours and are discharged the same day or within 24 hours. Patients are advised to: Walk regularly as recommended, Take prescribed pain medications, Avoid bending, twisting, and heavy lifting, Attend physiotherapy if advised, Keep the incision clean and dry, Attend follow-up appointments. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, severe pain, wound discharge, increasing numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.