Decompression, no fusion

MIS tubular discectomy & laminectomy

For herniated discs and spinal stenosis that don't require fusion, Dr. Zaidi uses tubular MIS techniques to decompress the affected nerve through a small working channel — often as an outpatient procedure.

Licensed illustration

Tubular discectomy
Suggested: tubular retractor with removal of a herniated disc fragment pressing on a nerve root.

Who this treats

Lumbar disc herniation Spinal stenosis Sciatica Nerve root compression

How it's performed

  1. 01

    Access

    A tubular retractor is placed through a small incision, dilating rather than cutting through muscle.

  2. 02

    Discectomy

    Herniated disc material pressing on the nerve is removed under microscopic or endoscopic visualization.

  3. 03

    Laminectomy

    A small portion of bone is removed where needed to relieve spinal canal narrowing.

  4. 04

    Closure

    The retractor is removed and the small incision is closed; same-day discharge is common.

Licensed illustration

Stenosis decompression
Suggested: before/after cross-section of the lumbar canal showing stenosis decompression.

Technology used

Ultrasonic bone scalpel

Precise bone removal during laminectomy while sparing nearby nerve tissue.

O-Arm CT navigation

Confirms level and trajectory for complex or revision cases.

Recovery & expectations

Setting
Outpatient / same day
Light activity
2–3 weeks
Full recovery
4–6 weeks

Individual recovery varies by procedure complexity, overall health, and adherence to post-operative guidance. Discuss your specific timeline during consultation.

What discectomy and laminectomy patients say

Dr. Zaidi performed my microdiscectomy on my far lateral herniation. He is very skilled and was so kind before, during, and after my surgery. Three months post op and I am back to my old self.
Tiffany B. · Google review
I had the lower back microdiscectomy surgery. After so much pain I had because of herniated disc leading to sciatica in my leg, he did a magic. Thank you doctor.
Aizirek Z. · Google review
I put my trust in him and he did not let me down. He did a great job of laminectomy and now I can walk.
Mark K. · Google review

Verbatim from public Google reviews, shown with first name and last initial. Individual experiences, not a guarantee of outcome. More patient reviews →

Ready to talk about whether this procedure is right for you?

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