What is Microdecompressive Cervical Discectomy with Laser Application?
Microdecompressive Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy with Laser Application is an outpatient procedure to shrink and remove a portion of the herniated disc. Using local, or in some cases, brief general anesthesia with the help of x-rays and endoscope for guidance, specially designed micro-instruments (a discectome and a laser probe) are inserted into the disc space. A portion of the offending disc is removed with suction and then shrunk with a laser, instead of open surgery. Microdecompressive cervical discectomy is different from standard cervical disc surgery because there is no muscle dissection, bone removal, bone fusion, or large incision. Therefore, most complications that occur with conventional surgery are eliminated with this procedure. Who Should Consider This Procedure? This procedure is specifically designed for patients with uncomplicated, herniated discs accompanied by the following: Pain radiating from the neck downward to the arm • Symptoms including severe headache, tingl
