Lumbar discectomy
Surgery for problems in the lower SpINe
HCA UK experts carry out surgery on your lower spine using minimally invasive surgery.
Why is a lumbar discectomy performed?
The surgery aims to alleviate symptoms such as pain and numbness.
Need to know
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What happens during surgery? icon plus
You'll be asleep during lumbar decompression surgery, which takes about 1-2 hours to perform. If surgery is recommended, you'll usually have at least one of the following procedures through a midline skin incision in the lower back.
If surgery is recommended, you'll usually have at least one of the following procedures:
- Laminectomy – where a section of bone is removed from the back of your vertebrae to relieve pressure on the affected nerve
- Discectomy – where a section of the slipped disc is removed to relieve pressure on a nerve
- Spinal fusion – where two or more vertebrae are fused together to stabilise and strengthen the spine.
These procedures can be done in isolation or combination depending on the clinical judgement of your surgeon.
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How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain to you how surgery is performed and you'll get the chance to ask any questions about the procedure. As you'll be given a general anaesthetic you should avoid eating and drinking at least 6 hours before your procedure.
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After your lumbar decompression icon plus
On average patients will spend 1-2 nights in hospital. You may need to lie flat for 3-4 hours post procedure due to the effects of the anaesthetic. After this time you should be able to sit up in bed. You may lie on your side if more comfortable. The following day you will be mobilised in the morning with the assistance of a physiotherapist or a nurse. You will be mobilised gently initially and this should be increased daily. Each day post surgery you will be encouraged to undertake more activities for yourself i.e. washing and dressing.
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Is decompression surgery effective? icon plus
There is good evidence that in appropriately selected patients decompression surgery is effective for pain relief and improved function.
Our spinal consultants
Our spinal locations
From complex spinal surgery to minor spinal procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road
Wilmslow
Cheshire SK9 1NY
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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Chiswick Medical Centre
Bond House
347-353 Chiswick High Road
London W4 4HS
Request a spinal appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced spinal consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344