Microdiscectomy
Knoxville’s Best Choice for Microdiscectomy Surgery in Eastern Tennessee
Our Specialty
Microdiscectomy
A microdiscectomy is one of the most common procedures for treating spine pain caused by a herniated disc. It involves removing a portion of the herniated disc to relieve pressure on the nerve, reducing pain.
What makes microdiscectomy different from traditional herniated disc surgery is that a microdiscectomy uses tiny instruments and a microscopic surgical approach. This type of surgery is minimally invasive and leads to a rapid recovery instead of a long hospital stay. The microdiscectomy success rate is between 90-96%.
MICRODISCECTOMY RECOVERY
Microdiscectomy is generally an outpatient procedure, with most patients going home the same day of their surgery. After the procedure, one of our physical or occupational therapists will work with you on how to accomplish basic tasks like getting in and out of bed safely post-surgery. Once you’re home, we generally recommend most patients keep mobile, but be gentle in their movements and avoid twisting the back.
Because a microdiscectomy is minimally invasive, patients enjoy a much more rapid recovery than traditional open spine surgery. As soon as surgery is finished and anesthesia wears off, you’ll be able to walk, shower, and do light activities.
In one to two weeks, you’ll be able to return to light work duties and driving, as long as your pain level has decreased to a point that you are no longer taking any narcotic pain medication.
At four weeks, you should be able to return to heavier work duties and even sports as long as your pain has subsided and you’ve recovered your strength and stability.
Our Spine Surgeons
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Testimonial From Patient Lee Solomon
I would recommend Dr. Wells to anybody that has this kind of back problem. He’s thorough and he’s takes great pride in his craft.