Discectomy

Percutaneous discectomy (“percutaneous” means ‘through the skin’) is a therapeutic treatment for patients suffering from low back and leg (radicular) pain due to contained disc herniations. The procedure is for those who have failed conservative treatments and are interested in trying minimally invasive options prior to considering traditional back surgery.

Procedure preparation

A CDI technologist or nurse will contact you 24-48 hours prior to your appointment to review medications you are currently taking, especially pain medications and blood thinners, discuss known allergies and your medical history, as well as answer your questions.
Contact your doctor before you stop taking any medication.
Please bring to CDI previous imaging study results (MRI, CT, x-rays) such as films, reports, or CD-ROMs, if available.
You will need a driver for your appointment. If you are unable to drive or arrange transportation, call us for assistance.
Please notify a member of CDI’s staff if you are nursing or if there is a chance you may be pregnant.

During the procedure – what to expect

Discectomy is generally performed in an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) or local surgery center, where we're able to offer I.V. sedation and monitoring by a nurse.
Once you arrive, you will be given an I.V. in your arm and given a light sedative, if desired and appropriate.
The radiologist will review all current prescriptions, MRIs, x-rays and reports.
The procedure will be performed under x-ray-guidance (fluoroscopy) to verify positioning of the discectomy probe.
Discectomy probe removes disc tissue, which may relieve painful pressure on the surrounding nerves.
The procedure generally takes 15 minutes to an hour.
Throughout the procedure, we will monitor your condition and comfort level closely.
You will be asked to rest in our recovery area until you are ready to go home.

After the procedure – what to expect

CDI will provide patient with activity and physician rehabilitation guidelines.
Adult supervision is necessary for the remainder of the day due to the effects of sedation.
Apply ice therapy to area for 1 to 2 hours per day for 3 days.
Prescription medications may be given to relieve these symptoms.
With appropriate follow-up care, pain will be reduced to tolerable level.

Questions?
If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, contact your local CDI center.