Microdiscectomy for Mt. Washington, KY

A microdiscectomy removes the piece of a herniated disc that is pressing on a nerve, relieving leg pain (sciatica) that has not settled with time, therapy and injections. For Mt. Washington patients, evaluation and non-surgical care are at our Mt. Washington clinic with orthopedic spine surgeon Michael Casnellie, MD and Michael Gilbert, PA-C; Dr. Casnellie performs the operation at our Louisville-area surgical facilities.

Who needs it

Patients with leg pain from a herniated disc confirmed on MRI, who still have significant pain after six weeks of non-surgical care, or who have progressive weakness. Back pain alone is usually not treated with microdiscectomy.

Before surgery

Physical therapy, medication and epidural steroid injections. Interventional pain management is available through Aptiva Health for Mt. Washington patients. MRI is performed at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville, including a high-field open MRI (physician referral required).

The procedure and recovery

A one-inch incision, a microscope, and removal of the disc fragment; usually outpatient. Leg pain relief is often immediate. Most patients walk the same day, return to desk work in one to two weeks and to full activity in six to twelve weeks. Follow-up visits and physical therapy return to Mt. Washington.

Imaging and insurance

X-ray is on site; MRI, if needed, is at our Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville, including a high-field open MRI (physician referral required). We accept most major insurance plans, workers' compensation and auto-injury claims. We offer self-pay where there is no insurance, it is a non-covered service, and on a case-by-case basis.

Frequently asked questions

Will I see a spine surgeon at the Mt. Washington clinic?

Yes. Michael Casnellie, MD, orthopedic spine surgeon, sees patients at the Mt. Washington clinic alongside Michael Gilbert, PA-C. The operation itself is performed at our Louisville-area surgical facilities, about 20 minutes away.

How long does sciatica need to last before surgery is considered?

Usually six weeks of non-surgical care, unless there is progressive weakness.

Is microdiscectomy outpatient?

Usually. Most patients go home the same day.

Where do I get the MRI?

At our 3615 Newburg Road imaging center in Louisville, about 20 minutes away, with a physician referral.

Call 502-909-0772, walk in 8 AM–4 PM Monday–Friday, or schedule online.