Discectomy
Definition
A surgical procedure to remove all or part of a herniated intervertebral disc that is compressing a nerve root or the spinal cord. Microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive version, is the most common spinal surgery in workers' compensation for lumbar disc herniations causing radiculopathy that fails conservative treatment.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Discectomy?
A surgical procedure to remove all or part of a herniated intervertebral disc that is compressing a nerve root or the spinal cord. Microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive version, is the most common spinal surgery in workers' compensation for lumbar disc herniations causing radiculopathy that fails conservative treatment.
Is discectomy covered under workers' compensation in California?
Discectomy may be authorized as part of a workers' compensation treatment plan in California, subject to utilization review (UR) and the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS). The primary treating physician must request authorization through the appropriate channels.