Kristen “Kris” Radcliff, MD serves as a spinal surgeon at the Rothman Institute in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. To meet the specific needs of each patient, Dr. Kristen Radcliff draws on knowledge of multiple spinal procedures, including the minimally invasive microdiscectomy.
If a patient has a herniated disc or other degenerative disc condition that has not responded to conservative treatment, his or her surgeon may perform a microdiscectomy to alleviate certain symptoms. Surgeons experienced in minimally invasive techniques often can perform this procedure with only a 2-centimeter incision in the lower back.
Using specialized instrumentation, the physician spreads the muscle tissue and removes part of the bony structure that protects the disc to be treated. This also allows the surgeon to access the damaged disc. Then, after drawing the nerves to the side, the surgeon removes the disc material that is compressing the nerves and causing the patient's pain.
Because this procedure minimizes damage to nearby muscle, patients can enjoy a shorter recovery time and reduced risk of complications, as compared to a traditional open approach. Most patients can go home the same day and experience relief beginning immediately after surgery. However, some symptoms may take months or years to resolve.
For more information about Dr. Radcliff and his work, visit rothmaninstitute.com/physicians/kris-e-radcliff-md or orcahealth.com/dr-radcliff.
