What is the purpose of a discectomy?

The purpose of a discectomy is to remove a portion of the intervertebral disk. This surgical procedure is typically performed when a disk herniates and presses on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. By removing the problematic portion of the disk, the procedure aims to relieve pressure on the nerve roots and alleviate symptoms.

In this context, while repairing a herniated disk is a related concept, a discectomy specifically focuses on excising the affected part of the disk rather than directly 'repairing' it or performing other procedures like spinal fusion or muscle strengthening. Spinal fusion involves joining two or more vertebrae together, while strengthening spinal muscles relates to physical therapy rather than surgical intervention. Thus, the primary and correct function of discectomy is the removal of a section of the intervertebral disk to provide relief from nerve compression.