Microdecompression is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pressure on damaged nerves in the spine. A lot of the time, this damage is caused by spine conditions like bone spurs, spinal degeneration, or herniated discs. When non-surgical therapies aren’t effective, one of the best approaches to take for treating back pain caused by these conditions is microdecompression.
Unlike traditional spine surgeries, microdecompression uses a minimally invasive approach. This surgery is performed through a very small incision that allows the surgeon to carefully remove the damaged area of the spine that is causing pressure.
One of the great things about this procedure is its precision. With microdecompression, the surgeon is able to remove the affected area without disturbing the surrounding tissue too much. Removal of the affected area will help to reduce pain, weakness, and numbness and will improve the patient’s mobility and comfort.
People with sciatica (pain down the leg), radiculopathy (pain caused by irritated spinal nerves), or spinal stenosis (narrowed spinal canal) may especially benefit from this procedure.
Comprehensive Microdecompression Options Available in Beverly Hills
People seeking out the best spinal care come to The Spine Pro from across the nation for its precision techniques, renowned medical professionals, and advanced imaging.
Dr. Hooman Melamed offers a variety of microdecompression treatments for back pain. Dr. Hooman Melamed is a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon who has been recognized for multiple awards in the field of medicine.
The Spine Pro team uses minimally invasive microdecompression techniques and advanced diagnostic imaging to pinpoint the exact source of nerve compression for a precise and accurate procedure.
Types of microdecompression surgeries include:
- Lumbar microdecompression is used to alleviate lower back and leg pain
- Posterior cervical microdecompression is used to alleviate neck and arm pain
Dr. Melamed diagnoses and treats a variety of spine-related conditions. Some of these include:
- Herniated and bulging discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Sciatica
- Scoliosis
Benefits and Advantages of Microdecompression Surgery
There are many benefits to choosing microdecompression surgery. The precise and minimally invasive (small incision) technique makes it an attractive alternative to traditional surgery.
Since advanced magnification tools are used, the surgeon only removes the damaged portion of the bone or disc. This means that the surrounding area of the spine is preserved.
Quick Pain Relief
Since microdecompression surgery targets the root cause of the pain and removes only the damaged portion, the surgeon is able to know exactly where the pain occurs. By ensuring that the correct area is removed, it’s likely that patients will notice pain reduction in the arms or legs quickly.
Minimally Invasive Technique
A small incision is used in microdecompression surgery, which means there is usually less blood loss, muscle damage, and scarring, and reduced postoperative pain.
Shorter Recovery Period
Because the surrounding tissue isn’t damaged with microdecompression surgery, patients can usually return home the same day.
High Success Rate
Microdecompression is very effective in treating back pain. Research shows that over 80% of patients report pain improvement after microdecompression surgery.
The Microdecompression Procedure: What To Expect
Dr. Melamed’s microdecompression procedure is designed with the patient in mind. He ensures that the patient is comfortable and that the procedure is safe and efficient.
Before the Procedure
First, your surgeon will perform an evaluation using techniques such as MRI scans, blood tests, and X-rays.
Prior to the procedure, you must report any allergies, as well as any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and aspirin should be stopped 1-2 weeks before surgery.
You should also avoid alcohol and tobacco for 1 week before surgery, and for 2 weeks afterward.
The night before your procedure, you’ll need to fast for at least 8 hours. You may be placed on a special diet and be given laxatives. Showering with an antibacterial soap the night before can help lower your risk of infection.
You will need to have someone drive you home the day of your procedure, so make sure to arrange this beforehand. Signing an informed consent form before the procedure is a requirement.
During the Procedure
Microdecompression surgery generally takes about 30-60 minutes to complete. However, expect to be in the recovery room for about 2 hours because of the anesthesia you will be given.
For the procedure, you will first be put under anesthesia. Then, your surgeon will make a very small incision in your back so that they can look at the damaged disc area with a surgical microscope.
After seeing where the affected area is, the surgeon will carefully remove the small piece of bone or disc that’s pressing against the spinal nerve. This will relieve pressure on the spine. The incision is then closed with stitches or surgical glue.
After Surgery
Most patients can return home the same day of the procedure. To relieve any pain during recovery, most patients take over-the-counter pain medications and may find that cold and heat therapy reduces inflammation. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the chance of infection.
Refrain from smoking and lifting (during the first 6 weeks) to give your body a chance to heal.
Your diet will begin with liquids after surgery, and you can slowly progress to normal, solid foods, as tolerated.
Light activities like walking are encouraged when healing to prevent blood clots, and physical therapy is part of the recovery process. A gradual return to work and daily life routines usually happens over 2-3 weeks, but you should refrain from driving until your doctor says it’s okay.
After fully recovering, patients experience less pain and greater mobility.
Book an Appointment With Dr. Melamed
If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, it’s worth exploring microdecompression surgery. Dr. Melamed and his team at The Spine Pro are dedicated to helping patients achieve reduced pain and better quality of life through minimally invasive surgery.
Take the first step toward relief today. Call 424-21-SPINE or click here to schedule your appointment.
Insurance
and Billing
We provide a very high level of individualized and concierge care. Therefore, we are out-of-network with almost all insurances, but as long as you have out-of-network benefits, we are happy to work with you, bill on your behalf, and verify your benefits.
