Microdiscectomy at Lumbar Level Treatment in Turkey
About Microdiscectomy at Lumbar Level
Key Highlights
-
Minimally invasive technique with a small incision.Uses a surgical microscope for precision and safety.Targets only the herniated disc fragment, preserving healthy tissue.Typically results in less post-operative pain and blood loss.Often allows for a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.Highly effective in relieving leg pain (sciatica) caused by nerve compression./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Severe sciatica (radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness) that does not improve with 6-12 weeks of conservative care.
- Significant neurological deficit, such as progressive muscle weakness or foot drop.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (cauda equina syndrome), which is a surgical emergency.
- Confirmatory imaging (MRI or CT scan) showing a herniated lumbar disc compressing a nerve root.
- Persistent pain that significantly limits daily activities and quality of life.
How to prepare
- Complete pre-operative medical evaluation, including blood tests and possibly an ECG.
- Discontinue certain medications (e.g., blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin) as advised by your surgeon.
- Stop smoking, as it can impair healing.
- Discuss all allergies and current medications with your surgical team.
- Fast (no food or drink) for the period specified before surgery, typically after midnight.
- Arrange for transportation and post-operative help at home for the initial recovery days.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the incision site or in the disc space (discitis).
- Bleeding or formation of a hematoma (blood clot).
- Nerve injury, which could lead to persistent numbness, weakness, or pain.
- Dural tear (cerebrospinal fluid leak), which may require repair.
- Recurrence of disc herniation at the same level.
- Rare risks include blood clots (DVT/PE), anesthesia complications, and injury to surrounding structures.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is typically short, often 1 day or on an outpatient basis.
- Incision care: Keep the area clean and dry; watch for signs of infection.
- Activity: Walking is encouraged immediately; avoid bending, lifting (more than 5-10 kgs), and twisting for the first 4-6 weeks.
- Pain management with prescribed medications.
- Gradual return to light activities and office work within 2-4 weeks.
- Formal physical therapy is often started after a few weeks to strengthen core and back muscles.
- Full recovery and return to strenuous activities or heavy labor may take 2-3 months.
-
Typical hospital stay:
1 day (often outpatient)
-
Expected recovery time:
4-6 weeks for light duty, 2-3 months for full activity
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering microdiscectomy at lumbar level in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for microdiscectomy at lumbar level in Turkey include Liv Hospital Ankara, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, VM Medical Park Pendik Hastanesi, Medical Park Florya, Medical Park Bahçelievler, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform microdiscectomy at lumbar level. MediFyr helps you compare spine surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for microdiscectomy at lumbar level compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 1,655 – USD 3,861 | 1 day (often outpatient) | ~ 4-6 weeks for light duty, 2-3 months for full activity | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 12,293 – USD 28,684 | 1 day (often outpatient) | ~ 4-6 weeks for light duty, 2-3 months for full activity | Know More |
Top hospitals for Microdiscectomy at Lumbar Level in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated spine surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing microdiscectomy at lumbar level.
Instabul, Turkey
140 Doctors
Pari Smith, a 42-year-old elementary school...
Pari Smith, a 42-year-old elementary school teacher and mother of two young children, had always been active. Her sciatica began subtly two years ago, but over the past six months, a herniated disc at L4-L5 made her life a constant battle. Sharp, electric pain shot down her right leg whenever she stood for more than a few minutes, making teaching and playing with her kids agonizing. She tried physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and pain medication, but the relief was temporary. Her neurosurgeon, Dr. Evans, explained that the disc fragment was compressing a nerve root and a microdiscectomy was the best option to remove it and give her nerve space to heal. Pari was terrified of surgery and the idea of being 'out of commission' for her family. The minimally invasive procedure itself was quick, and she went home the same day. The surgical leg pain was gone immediately upon waking. Recovery required patience, four weeks of no bending or lifting, but with her husband's support, she managed. Within three months, she was back in the classroom and, most joyfully, able to get down on the floor to play with her children without fear. Her journey moved from fear and frustration to profound relief and gratitude for reclaiming her active, engaged life.