Minimally Invasive Techniques: Lumbar Foraminotomy/Lateral Discectomy

The spinal column consists of vertebrae, which is a chain of bones. The intervertebral disc in the spinal column is above and below each vertebra. It is a flat portion and provides support to the vertebrae of the spinal column. The spinal column protects the spinal cord from injuries and infections. The spinal cord is an integral part of the nervous system that sends sensory information from your body to the brain. Also, your spinal cord sends instructions or messages from your brain to different organs and tissues of the body. The spinal cord spreads out nerves in your body, and they perform the function of sending and receiving information. Nevers exit your spinal column through the intervertebral foramen, which is a small hole that lies between your spinal vertebrae. When this small opening becomes small, they cause nerve compression, which leads to pain and tingling in your arms and legs. The occurrence of symptoms depends on the compressed nerve location along your spinal column. For instance, a compressed nerve in your neck can cause neck pain as well as tingling and weakness in your arm and hand. During Lumbar Foraminotomy/Lateral Discectomy in Frisco TX, our surgeon makes an incision in your neck or back to reach the affected vertebra. Then, the surgeon widens the intervertebral foramen (a small opening) to remove the blockages.