Procedure guide · Spine surgery
A lumbar discectomy removes part of a damaged disc in the lower back that is pressing on a nerve. The NHS describes it as part of lumbar decompression surgery, used to relieve symptoms such as sciatica and leg numbness or tingling. Other treatments are often tried first, and a spine surgeon decides whether surgery suits you.
What is a lumbar discectomy?
Discs are the cushions between the bones of the spine. When part of a disc moves out of place, often called a slipped disc, it can press on a nerve. The NHS explains that in decompression surgery the surgeon may remove small pieces of bone from a vertebra (a laminectomy) and part of the disc (a discectomy) to take pressure off the nerve.
The NHS says the operation is done under a general anaesthetic. The surgeon uses either one larger cut or several small cuts in the back. It usually takes about two to four hours.
Who may be considered for a discectomy?
The NHS lists sciatica and a slipped disc among the reasons for lumbar decompression. Other reasons include spinal stenosis, cauda equina syndrome, injury and tumours. It notes that, depending on the cause, physiotherapy, weight loss or steroid injections may be tried first.
Urgent symptoms
The NHS lists cauda equina syndrome, a serious form of nerve compression, among the reasons for this surgery. If you develop new leg weakness or numbness, or problems controlling your bladder or bowel, seek urgent medical help where you are. Do not delay care in order to travel.
Your surgeon decides whether surgery is right by matching your symptoms to what the MRI shows.
Which reports does a spine surgeon usually ask for?
Ask the hospital whether it needs:
- a recent MRI of the lower back, with images and report
- X-rays of the lower spine
- a description of where the pain goes in the leg and any numbness or weakness
- how long symptoms have lasted
- physiotherapy, injections or medicines already tried
- nerve conduction studies, if done
How do I plan a discectomy trip?
The NHS describes a hospital stay of around two to five days, with staff helping you up and moving soon after surgery. Plan for remote review, a plan and estimate, visas, arrival and checks, surgery, the ward stay and a period near the hospital before flying. Your surgeon decides when you can sit through a long flight.
Bring an attendant to carry bags and help with transfers. Book aisle seating and ask for wheelchair help at airports. The NHS mentions physiotherapy and occupational therapy as part of recovery. Ask for a written exercise plan and arrange a physiotherapist at home. Keep a copy of the operation note for any future spine doctor.
What should I ask the hospital before booking?
- Does my MRI match my symptoms?
- Should I try other treatments before surgery?
- Will you use a microscope or endoscope, and through what size of cut?
- Will you remove any bone as well as disc?
- When may I sit for a long flight?
- What signs after surgery mean I should seek help urgently?
Who decides
IndiaMedica does not give medical advice. Your treating specialist decides whether this procedure suits you, the treatment plan, how long you stay and when it is safe to fly.
Questions people ask
Do I need surgery for sciatica?
Not always. The NHS notes that treatments such as physiotherapy, weight loss or steroid injections may be tried first, depending on the cause. Surgery is considered when symptoms continue or nerves are seriously compressed. Your spine surgeon advises after examining you and reviewing your MRI.
What problems should I watch for after surgery?
The NHS advises contacting a doctor urgently about new leg weakness or numbness, bladder or bowel problems, or signs of wound infection such as redness, swelling or discharge. Keep the hospital’s contact details with you while travelling and after you return home.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.