Before your lumbar herniated disc surgery you will be scheduled for presurgical tests, such as a blood test, electrocardiogram, and x-ray. Your physician will ask about any medical conditions or medications your take before beginning your treatment for a herniated disc. You may have to stop taking some of these medications prior to surgery. It is also advised to stop any alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking 1-2 weeks before surgery.
When you arrive for surgery you should wear comfortable clothes and leave jewelry and hairpins and other accessories at home. Your clinic will have you fill out the necessary paperwork.
After you are administered the anesthesia and you are asleep, the doctor will roll you on your stomach. With the help of x-rays, the surgeon passes a thin needle down to the affected disc. The ruptured portion of the disc is removed with the help of a surgical microscope. The small incision is then closed with sutures or staples.