A microdiscectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve the symptoms of a herniated spinal disc, also known as a herniated or slipped disc. The main goal of a microdiscectomy is to remove the herniated portion of the disc that is compressing the nerves.

A discectomy is a surgical procedure in which a portion of a damaged or herniated intervertebral disc is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It is typically performed to alleviate pain, numbness, or weakness caused by a compressed nerve. Recovery time and post-operative care will depend on the type of surgery and individual case.