Clinical Outcome Of Lumbar Disc Herniation Treated With Microdiscectomy

Original Article

Abstract

Background: Lumbar disc herniation is a significant cause of radicular low back pain and functional disability in adults. When conservative management fails, surgical decompression becomes necessary. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive technique that relieves nerve root compression while preserving spinal stability, enabling early recovery and favorable clinical outcomes.

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of lumbar disc herniation treated with microdiscectomy by assessing postoperative pain relief, functional improvement, neurological recovery, and procedure-related complications.

Methodology: This prospective study enrolled 120 adult patients with MRI-confirmed single-level lumbar disc herniation undergoing microdiscectomy at a tertiary care hospital. Patients with persistent radiculopathy despite adequate conservative treatment were included. Preoperative evaluation included neurological examination, a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Standard microscopic lumbar discectomy was performed under general anesthesia. Patients were followed postoperatively at scheduled intervals to assess pain, functional status, neurological recovery, and complications.

Results: The 120 patients, the mean age was 42.3 ± 10.6 years, with a predominance of male patients. The most frequently involved disc levels were L4–L5 and L5–S1. Preoperatively, patients experienced severe radicular pain and marked functional impairment. The mean VAS score significantly decreased from 7.8 ± 1.1 preoperatively to 2.1 ± 0.9 at final follow-up (p < 0.001). Similarly, the mean ODI score improved from 62.5 ± 8.4% to 18.7 ± 6.2% postoperatively, reflecting substantial functional recovery (p < 0.001). Neurological deficits were observed preoperatively in a considerable proportion of patients, with most achieving complete recovery and a smaller number showing partial improvement during follow-up.

Conclusion: Lumbar microdiscectomy is a safe and effective surgical treatment for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation unresponsive to conservative therapy. It provides significant pain relief, marked functional improvement, and high rates of neurological recovery with minimal complications.