Minimally invasive options to reduce pressure on spinal nerves from contained or bulging discs.
Laser disc procedures are minimally invasive techniques used to treat selected disc problems. Using fine instruments, controlled energy, or small incisions, excess disc material is removed or reshaped to reduce nerve pressure.
These percutaneous or keyhole procedures usually avoid open surgery and are often performed as day-case treatments.
A laser fiber is placed via a fine needle into the disc; laser energy vaporizes small amounts of nucleus to lower intradiscal pressure and relieve nerve compression.
A thin probe is placed into the disc under imaging; radiofrequency/plasma energy ablates small amounts of nucleus to reduce intradiscal pressure.
A minimally invasive surgical removal of herniated disc fragments via a small incision, often using microscopic or tubular techniques for direct nerve decompression.
All three aim to decompress the nerve root and reduce radicular pain.
Minimally invasive with small incisions or percutaneous access
Often outpatient (same-day discharge)
Often quicker early recovery than open surgery
Can reduce reliance on long-term pain medications
May relieve nerve-related back or leg pain in selected patients
Local or general anesthesia; procedure typically 30–60 minutes.
Post-procedure guidance, activity plan, and rehab as needed.
MRI (and clinical exam) confirm the disc problem and candidacy.
Many patients mobilize within hours and resume light activity in days to weeks.
Not all herniated discs require open surgery.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Babak to review whether minimally invasive options—PLDD, nucleoplasty, or microdiscectomy—are appropriate for you.
