A discectomy is the surgical removal of the herniated disc material that presses on the nerve root of the spinal cord. This process involves removing the portion of an intervertebral disc, which causes pain by stressing the spinal cord and radiating the nerves.
A laminotomy is often involved to permit access to the intervertebral disc, allowing the surgeon to better see the area of disc herniation.
This surgery was first performed in 1971. Today, it has progressed to a minimally invasive laser procedure. This type of surgery is conducted by a small incision and removal of a herniated disc that has its annular fibers torn and is sitting on or compressing the spinal column or nerves.