What is a lumbar discectomy?
A herniated lumbar disc can press on the nerves in the spine and may cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness of the leg, called sciatica. Most patients (80% – 90%) with an acute lumbar disc herniation improve without surgery. Surgery is less effective in relieving back pain, but for some patients, especially those with leg pain, surgery may be recommended. Surgery removes part of the herniated disc through a small incision, relieving the pressure on the nerve.
