A microdiscectomy is a surgical approach for the treatment of sciatica, caused by lumbar disc herniation. In this type of surgery, a small section of the disc underneath the nerve root/bone is removed. An open surgery, another name for microdiscectomy, utilises minimally invasive techniques and is performed with a relatively smaller invasion and damage to the tissues. An endoscopic spine surgery is the least invasive type of surgical procedure. It is employed when patients suffering from pain require relief from a condition of the spine causing sciatica.

Comparing endoscopic and microscopic discectomy

Both endoscopic and microscopic surgery involve minimum invasion. There are advantages to both types. During endoscopic surgeries, the surgeon visualizes the internal structure of the spine using an endoscope. Microscopic surgeries are performed using high-power microscope, allowing for a better visual field and lower disruption of the sift tissue.