Cervical spineMinimally invasive surgery

Cervical microdiscectomy

Cervical microdiscectomy in Alicante is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve neck pain and arm symptoms caused by a cervical disc herniation or nerve compression. Many patients consider this surgery after persistent pain, reduced mobility or neurological symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatments.

Spine neurosurgeon in Alicante and Benidorm

More than 20 years of experience in Neurosurgery (since 2003)

Vithas Medimar Hospital Alicante and Hospital Clínica Benidorm

Medical illustration of cervical microdiscectomy to relieve nerve compression.

What is cervical microdiscectomy?

Cervical microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove the portion of a cervical disc that is compressing a nerve root or the spinal cord. Using a surgical microscope, the surgeon accesses the affected disc with precision, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues. Unlike other procedures such as cervical discectomy ACDF or cervical disc arthroplasty involving implants or fusion, cervical microdiscectomy focuses solely on decompressing the nervous structures responsible for pain and neurological symptoms. For more information, you can contact us or learn more about Dr. Ben Ghezala.

Symptoms and warning signs

Patients who may benefit from this treatment typically experience the following symptoms:

Neck pain radiating to the shoulder, arm or hand

Tingling, numbness or loss of strength in the upper limbs

Pain aggravated by neck movements or prolonged postures

Partial relief with rest or medication

Warning signs requiring urgent consultation: sudden loss of strength, gait instability, severe or sudden pain, or symptoms suggesting significant spinal cord compression

When is this procedure indicated?

Persistent symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatment

MRI or CT evidence of cervical disc herniation

Clear nerve root compression matching clinical symptoms

Neurological progression such as weakness or gait disorders

Disabling pain affecting daily or professional activities

How is the procedure performed?

1.Preoperative preparation

A full clinical evaluation is performed, including imaging review and patient counselling. Fasting, medication adjustments and preoperative guidelines are provided.

2.During the procedure

Cervical microdiscectomy is performed through a minimally invasive approach. Using a surgical microscope, the surgeon removes the herniated disc fragment compressing the nerve root or spinal cord. The goal is to decompress the neural structures while preserving surrounding tissues.

3.Immediate postoperative period

After surgery, patients spend a short period in the recovery area. Pain control is usually effective, and early mobilisation is encouraged. Most patients stay in the hospital for 24–48 hours depending on recovery.

Recovery after cervical microdiscectomy

Recovery is gradual. Many patients resume light daily activity within a few days and office work within 2–3 weeks. Physical jobs may require additional time. Rehabilitation, guided exercises and ergonomic habits play a key role. Medical follow-up is important to monitor progress and identify warning signs such as fever, increased pain or neurological changes.

Risks and possible complications

General surgical risks include infection, bleeding, anaesthesia-related issues and thrombosis. Specific risks of cervical microdiscectomy include nerve root injury, cerebrospinal fluid leak, cervical instability or disc herniation recurrence. The decision to operate is made individually after weighing risks and benefits.

Frequently asked questions

Most surgeries last between 45 and 90 minutes. Patients then spend a short period in recovery before returning to their room.

You will not feel pain during the procedure because it is performed under anaesthesia. After surgery, mild discomfort may appear but is usually well controlled with medication.

Patients with desk jobs typically return within 2–3 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require a longer recovery period depending on progress.

Recurrence is possible but not common. Good posture, rehabilitation and healthy habits help reduce the risk.

Unlike conservative care, cervical microdiscectomy directly addresses the mechanical cause of compression. Compared to fusion or prosthesis surgery, it is less invasive and usually preserves cervical stability.

Do these symptoms sound familiar?

If you recognise yourself in some of these symptoms and your pain is starting to limit your daily life, we can review your case in a personalised consultation. Dr. Ben Ghezala will assess your clinical history and imaging studies to help you decide the best treatment option for you.

Request a consultation with Dr. Ben Ghezala