Sciatica / Slipped Disc

Spine Discectomy and Stabilisation
Discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the damaged portion of a herniated intervertebral disc that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord. It is commonly performed for lumbar or cervical disc herniation causing nerve compression and symptoms like radiating pain, numbness, or weakness.
Indications:
Herniated disc with nerve compression
Failed conservative treatment
Cauda equina syndrome (emergency)
Severe pain or neurological deficits
Types of Discectomy:
Open Discectomy
Microdiscectomy (minimally invasive)
Endoscopic Discectomy
Stabilisation involves fusion or instrumentation to maintain spinal alignment and prevent abnormal movement after disc removal. It is often needed when there is:
Spinal instability
Multiple level disc disease
Degenerative disc disease
Recurrent disc prolapse
Stabilisation Techniques:
Pedicle screw fixation
Rods and cages
Interbody fusion (e.g., TLIF, PLIF, ACDF)
Goals:
Relieve nerve compression
Restore spinal stability
Maintain spinal alignment
Improve function and reduce pain