In between spinal vertebrae, there are discs, gel-like cushions that allow for spinal mobility, act as shock absorbers, and hold the spine together. With age or injury, these discs can begin to bulge outwards, increasing inflammation and stress on nearby nerves.

When this occurs with discs in the lower region of the spine, the sciatic nerve can be injured, causing sciatica. In these instances, patients usually experience pain in the legs or feet that may be alleviated by a percutaneous disc decompression. During this minimally invasive procedure, small amounts of the disc tissue are removed, relieving pressure on the nearby sciatic nerve.

This treatment is most successful in patients with discs that are mildly compressed and have not ruptured. Most people that undergo percutaneous disc decompression note that their pain is relieved almost immediately following surgery.