Discectomy Surgery in New Jersey
Back pain can prevent you from living a fulfilling life. Fortunately, advanced procedures such as discectomy can provide long-term relief. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides this and other minimally invasive spine surgeries at locations throughout New Jersey. Call us for a consultation to find out how we can help you return to pain-free living.
What Is a Discectomy?
A discectomy is a surgical procedure to remove most or all of a spinal disc. It can be performed from the front, the side, or the back of the body, depending on where the damaged disc is located.
Your spine is a series of interlocking bones, called vertebrae. Between each pair of vertebrae is a spinal disc. These pads of rubbery tissue act as cushions that absorb shock, provide support, and allow the vertebrae to slide against one another for smooth, flexible mobility. When a disc degenerates or ruptures, it can no longer provide these benefits. The damaged parts may also press against spinal nerves, causing painful compression.
The removal of tissue helps to relieve nerve compression and allows the disc to heal naturally. A spine surgeon may also perform a discectomy to create space for a spinal disc replacement.
When Do Spine Specialists Recommend a Discectomy?
Your spine specialist will closely monitor your condition before recommending a discectomy. He only recommends surgery when symptoms are severe or nonresponsive to conservative treatments. These symptoms may include:
- Persistent pain
- Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet
- Burning pain that travels to your legs (sciatica)
- Loss of leg mobility
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numb or tingling sensations
Several conditions might require a discectomy. NU-Spine uses this procedure for the following spine complaints:
- Degenerative disc disease: Over time, wear and tear causes spinal discs to shrink and turn brittle. They can no longer provide the cushioning your body needs.
- Cervical herniated disc, thoracic herniated disc, or lumbar herniated disc: A herniated disc has ruptured, allowing its soft core to leak out. Without the core, the disc cannot absorb shock as effectively.
- Cervical stenoisis or lumbar stenosis: Sometimes, a leaking disc core will invade the spinal canal. This often puts painful pressure on the spinal cord.
- Cervical radiculopathy or lumbar radiculopathy: Herniated discs may also compress the root nerves, which are nerve clusters that leave the spinal cord to reach other parts of the body.
A discectomy can provide lasting spine pain relief where other treatments fail. After recovery, you’ll be able to return to an active lifestyle full of the activities you love.
Spine Surgeon for Discectomy at NU-Spine
Discectomies at NU-Spine are performed by Branko Skovrlj, MD. Dr. Skovrlj is one of the few board-certified neurosurgeons in New Jersey to focus solely on the spine. He regularly contributes to efforts to improve the field of spine surgery and has earned awards for his accomplishments. He travels around the world to present his findings at prestigious gatherings of doctors and researchers. When at the practice, he is very down-to-earth and takes the time to build relationships with his patients.
Dr. Skovrlj specializes in minimally invasive procedures. These advanced surgeries are performed using smaller incisions. The procedure takes less time to complete, and patients typically recover faster. They also come with less risk of infection and other complications, ensuring a better result.
How Discectomy Is Performed
Not all discectomies are the same. There are several variations in the procedure, depending on the surgery site location and the extent of the damage.
- Open discectomy: During an open procedure, the surgeon makes a wide enough incision to see through. This type of discectomy typically requires a long recovery.
- Microdiscectomy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses smaller incisions. An endoscopic camera gives the spine specialist a better view of the affected area.
- Laminectomy: If the damaged disc is difficult to access, the doctor may need to remove part of the bone around it. He may also remove bone spurs causing nerve compression.
What happens after surgery depends on which variation you receive. If you receive a minimally invasive discectomy or microdiscectomy, you may be able to go home on the day of your procedure. If you receive an open discectomy, a one- to two-day hospital stay is necessary to ensure a successful recovery. Dr. Skovrlj will provide guidelines for recovery, which may include medications, avoiding physical activity, bathing precautions, and instructions about follow-ups.
Find Pain Relief at NU-Spine
If you are struggling with back pain, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with the spine experts at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today to learn more about discectomy procedures or to schedule a consultation in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, Freehold, or Hainesport, NJ.
