What Is Lumbar Microdiscectomy?
Lumbar microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive spinal surgery to remove part of a herniated disc that is compressing a spinal nerve. It is a common procedure for patients with sciatica, leg pain, numbness, or weakness due to a “slipped” disc in the lower back.
Who Is It For?
Candidates typically have:
- Persistent sciatica not relieved by physiotherapy or injections
- Confirmed disc herniation on MRI
- Neurological symptoms like numbness or foot drop
Microdiscectomy is usually a day-case or one-night stay procedure performed under general anaesthetic.
Outcomes and Recovery
Most patients report immediate relief from leg pain after surgery. Light activity resumes within a few days, with a return to work in 2–4 weeks depending on occupation. Heavy lifting and sport are avoided for 6–8 weeks. Long-term outcomes are excellent with proper rehab.


