Discectomy

A discectom is a surgical procedure in which an extravasated segment of the intervertebral disc is dissected. An intervertebral disc lies between adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Each disc forms a cartilaginous joint to allow slight movement of the vertebrae and acts as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together. An extravasated segment of the intervertebral disc can cause pain by stressing the spinal cord or radiating nerves. A laminectomy is often involved to permit access to the intervertebral disc.