Discectomy
Discectomy
Discectomy (pronounced: dis-KEK-toh-mee) is a surgical procedure to remove a portion of the disc that rests between each vertebrae. A herniated disc is the most common reason for discectomy.
Etymology
The term "discectomy" is derived from the Latin "discus" which means "disc" and the Greek "ektome" meaning "excision".
Procedure
In a discectomy, the surgeon removes the herniated portion of a disc to relieve irritation and inflammation of a nerve. Discectomy can be performed anywhere along the spine from the neck (cervical) to the low back (lumbar). The procedure is done through a small incision in the back.
Types of Discectomy
There are several types of discectomy procedures, including:
- Microdiscectomy: This is a minimally invasive procedure. The surgeon uses a special microscope to view the disc and nerves. The larger view allows the surgeon to remove less of the surrounding bone and muscle.
- Percutaneous Discectomy: In this procedure, the surgeon uses a needle and a probe to remove the disc.
- Endoscopic Discectomy: This is also a minimally invasive procedure. The surgeon uses an endoscope to remove the disc through small incisions.
Related Terms
- Laminectomy: This is a surgery that creates space by removing the lamina, the back part of the vertebra that covers your spinal canal.
- Spinal Fusion: This is a surgery to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in your spine, eliminating motion between them.
- Herniated Disc: This condition occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing.
- Vertebrae: These are the small, interlocking bones of the spine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Discectomy
- Wikipedia's article - Discectomy
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