Procedure
Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy is a focused lumbar nerve decompression used most often for sciatica caused by a herniated disc that is not improving with good nonsurgical care. Atlas can help explain why the operation is aimed at the nerve pain in the leg, what tissue is removed, and how Dr. Iyer balances symptom severity, weakness, and recovery expectations before recommending surgery.
Why it is done
Microdiscectomy is usually performed when a lumbar disc herniation causes persistent leg-dominant pain, neurologic deficit, or major functional limitation. It is not meant to treat every kind of back pain and works best when the symptoms clearly match a compressed nerve root.
What the surgery involves
Through a small incision, the surgeon uses magnification to reach the affected nerve and remove the fragment of disc that is pressing on it. The goal is decompression of the nerve, not removal of the entire disc.
What it helps most
Microdiscectomy is especially effective for radiating leg pain, while numbness or weakness may recover more gradually depending on how irritated the nerve has been. Patients with primarily back-dominant pain and little true nerve compression may not benefit in the same way.
Recovery
Recovery often involves early walking, short-term restrictions on heavy bending or lifting, and progressive return to activity as the wound and nerve settle. The operation is focused and efficient, but long-term success still depends on matching the surgery to the right symptom pattern and imaging findings.
Use Atlas for the Next Step
Ask follow-up questions in plain language about symptoms, treatment pathways, and how this topic connects to your visit with Dr. Iyer.