Minimally Invasive Herniated Disc Surgery
Radiating leg pain, numbness or neck discomfort can disrupt daily life. With minimally invasive herniated disc surgery, Dr. Rojeh Melikian can provide relief from nerve compression without the trauma of large incisions or long hospital stays. This modern technique allows patients to return to their active lives faster than with traditional open surgery.
What Is a Herniated Disc, and Am I a Candidate for Herniated Disc Surgery?
A herniated disc is a rupture of the soft inner core of the spinal disc in the vertebrae. The pain experienced from a herniated disc comes from the disc material compressing sensitive spinal nerves. This can feel like sharp shooting pain, tingling in extremities or weakness in your feet.
You may be a candidate for herniated disc surgery if you have had persistent leg or arm pain that has not responded to conservative care, such as physical therapy, injections or medications. Dr. Melikian will work with you to talk through your symptoms, run some tests and ensure your eligibility.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Herniated Disc Surgery
Patients can experience several advantages from minimally invasive herniated disc surgery, including:
- Smaller incisions: With minimally invasive herniated disc surgery, incisions are typically only 1-inch long, leading to minimal scarring and a lower risk of infection.
- Increased muscle preservation: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) preserves muscle integrity, reduces tissue damage and lessens post-operative pain.
- More outpatient focus: Most patients can return home to recover the same day rather than enduring a long hospital stay.
- Faster recovery: Compared to traditional methods, minimally invasive herniated disc surgery supports a faster return to work, driving and daily activities.
Microdiscectomy Surgical Procedure
A microdiscectomy is the most common and effective MIS for herniated discs when nonsurgical options don’t provide enough relief. During the surgery, patients are under general anesthesia while Dr. Melikian creates a small, 1-inch incision and uses a microscope to locate and remove the damaged disc fragment. No bone is removed, which helps to maintain spinal stability. The procedure is highly efficient, often taking less than one hour per level.
Recovery After a Microdiscectomy
After your cervical or lumbar microdiscectomy, you’ll wake up in a recovery room. Our team will gently guide you to start walking within hours of surgery, and go home the same day. Dr. Melikian and his team will provide you with tailored instructions, including initial limitations, physical therapy recommendations and pain management techniques.
Why Choose Dr. Melikian for Minimally Invasive Herniated Disc Surgery?
Rojeh Melikian, M.D., is a Harvard and Emory University fellowship-trained and board-certified surgeon. He specializes in microscopic and MIS techniques to provide better outcomes for his patients. At our facilities, we emphasize compassionate care, thorough education and conservative-first philosophies — Dr. Melikian will only operate when necessary. Our team is happy to walk alongside you, helping you find solutions to minimize pain and accelerate recovery.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Melikian Today
If you’re ready to start the journey toward lasting relief, contact our team to schedule your consultation, or call us at 949-269-6879 for more information. We proudly serve Southern California with advanced spine care from our locations in Marina del Rey, Newport Beach and Brentwood.