Spinal Discectomy
A procedure that removes part of a herniated spinal disc pressing on a nerve, relieving pain and numbness.
What is Spinal Discectomy?
A discectomy removes the portion of a spinal disc that has herniated, or bulged out of place, and is pressing on a nearby nerve root, causing pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates into the arms or legs. Using minimally invasive techniques in most cases, your surgeon accesses the affected area through a small incision and carefully removes only the damaged portion of disc material causing the compression, leaving the rest of the disc and surrounding structures intact. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and, for straightforward cases, can often be completed on an outpatient or short-stay basis.
Why is this procedure performed?
- Leg or arm pain radiating from a herniated disc (sciatica)
- Numbness or weakness linked to nerve compression from a disc
- Pain that has not improved with medication, injections, or physiotherapy
- A confirmed herniated disc on MRI matching your symptoms
- Progressive weakness requiring more urgent surgical intervention
How does this procedure help?
Removing the portion of disc pressing on a nerve typically provides rapid, significant relief from radiating pain, often within days of surgery. Most patients notice a substantial reduction in leg or arm symptoms almost immediately, with numbness and weakness improving more gradually as the nerve heals. Recovery from a minimally invasive discectomy is generally quick, with many patients returning to light activities within a few weeks.
How quickly can this be arranged in India?
Typical timeline in India
2–3 weeks
Compared to Canada / USA
75–85% faster
Cost savings vs. Canada / USA
70–85% less
Context
Orthopaedic procedures such as knee and hip replacement have average wait times of 12–24 months in Canada. In India, the same procedures are typically scheduled within 2–3 weeks.
Timeline data based on publicly available data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) and NHS/Commonwealth Fund comparative studies. Cost estimates based on publicly available medical tourism cost comparisons, including Patients Beyond Borders. Actual costs vary by hospital and case complexity and are confirmed during your clinical assessment.
How does Medicay Global help?
We coordinate access to this procedure through our vetted hospital network in India, handling everything non-clinical along the way. Your Personal Medical Representative manages scheduling, logistics, and communication on your behalf, so you can focus on your health. Medicay Global coordinates access — all clinical decisions are made by licensed physicians.
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