Learn more about the use of Nucleoplasty for Spinal Surgery.

Excerpt from WebMD explaining Percutaneous Discectomy

In percutaneous discectomy, the surgeon uses continuous X-ray monitoring to follow movement in the body (fluoroscopy). During fluoroscopy, X-rays are directed at your spine, and the resulting pictures are displayed on a monitor similar to a TV screen. The surgeon will make a small incision in your back and insert instruments that are used to remove all or part of the herniated disc.

Fluoroscopy is the same process used when administering epidural injections or facet joint blocks. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure with very low risk of complications. Percutaneous discectomy is done if: the history, physical examination, and imaging (such as CT scan or MRI) indicate that the disc is bulging, and the material inside the disc (nucleus) has not ruptured into the spinal canal. Pain and nerve damage have not improved after 4 or more weeks of nonsurgical treatment, and symptoms are severe and disabling. There are signs of serious nerve damage (that may be getting worse) in the leg, such as severe weakness, loss of coordination, or loss of feeling. Pain is severe and disabling.” If you are not able or willing to have a discectomy or microdiscectomy (a procedure used on the discs of the lower back).

Before you consent to Spinal Fusion ask your doctor if this is an option for you! Information on Surgeons performing these proceedures may be obtained at American Academy of Minimally Invasive Spinal Medicine and Surgery.