Do You Need a Referral for Microdiscectomy?

Microdiscectomy removes a small part of disc material that is pressing on a spinal nerve, usually to address leg pain or other nerve-related symptoms. A neurosurgeon or spine surgeon reviews your symptom pattern, strength, sensation, reflexes, walking, medical history, and imaging. The referral starts that review; it does not mean the scan alone has decided that surgery is needed.

Ask your primary doctor or treating clinician whether the selected service requires a referral or authorization. Gather MRI reports and images, medication details, previous treatment information, and a timeline of pain, numbness, or weakness. Ask how quickly you should be assessed, whether non-surgical care remains reasonable, and what medical checks are needed before an operation. Keep the referral details available when arranging follow-up.

Seek emergency medical care for new bladder or bowel problems, numbness around the inner thighs or groin, rapidly progressing leg weakness, inability to walk, or severe back pain after a major injury. These symptoms need immediate assessment rather than waiting for a standard referral.

Ask which specialist should receive the referral, whether your imaging is recent enough, what symptom changes require urgent review, what alternatives remain, and how recovery may affect sitting, lifting, driving, and work.