Which specialist performs microdiscectomy?

A microdiscectomy removes the part of a slipped or herniated disc that is irritating a nerve root, commonly in the lower back. The surgeon works through a small opening and uses magnification to reach the affected area while limiting disruption to surrounding structures. The operation is considered in the context of symptoms, examination findings, imaging, and response to non-surgical treatment.

Bring your scan images and report, symptom timeline, medication list, and details of physiotherapy or other care. Ask the surgeon to match the scan to your symptoms and explain alternatives, expected changes in leg pain or weakness, activity restrictions, wound care, and the rehabilitation plan. A spine surgeon from either neurosurgery or orthopaedic surgery may be appropriate when they have relevant experience.

Get urgent medical help for new bladder or bowel difficulty, numbness around the saddle area, rapidly worsening weakness, or severe trouble walking. After surgery, urgent review is needed for worsening weakness, increasing wound redness or drainage, fever, severe headache, or loss of bladder control.

Ask which nerve is compressed, how the scan supports the diagnosis, why microdiscectomy is preferred, what symptoms may take longer to improve, when driving and lifting can resume, and which warning signs require immediate contact.