A microdiscectomy is a procedure in which a surgeon removes part or all of a bulging or damaged disc in your lower spine.
A bulging or damaged (herniated) disc can press on your spinal cord, causing pain and numbness, as well as muscle weakness. Microdiscectomy relieves that pressure, which can help cure symptoms. It is only recommended after other treatments, such as physical therapy and steroid shots, have not worked.
Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery, which means the surgeon only uses a small incision to reach the disc.