When a herniated or bulging disc presses on a nerve, it can cause sharp pain, numbness, or weakness in the back or legs. Dr. Sanjay Ghosh, a board-certified neurosurgeon and leading spine surgeon in San Diego, specializes in microdiscectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that relieves pressure on spinal nerves while preserving healthy tissue.
With more than 20 years of surgical experience, Dr. Ghosh combines advanced imaging technology and precise microsurgical techniques to help patients regain comfort and mobility.
Call (619) 810-1010 to schedule a consultation and learn if a microdiscectomy is right for you.
A microdiscectomy (also called a micro decompression) is a minimally invasive spine surgery that removes a small portion of a herniated disc pressing on a spinal nerve. This relieves nerve compression, reduces inflammation, and helps restore normal movement without the need for large incisions or extended hospital stays.
Dr. Ghosh performs microdiscectomy procedures using advanced operating microscopes and navigation tools to ensure precision, minimize tissue disruption, and promote faster recovery.
Microdiscectomy is commonly recommended for patients experiencing:
If you’ve been living with persistent back or leg pain caused by a herniated disc, microdiscectomy spine surgery in San Diego may provide long-term relief.
Dr. Ghosh performs microdiscectomy through a small incision, usually less than one inch long. Using a microscope for enhanced visibility, he removes the small portion of disc material pressing on the nerve while keeping the surrounding muscles and ligaments intact.
The procedure typically includes:
Most procedures are completed within an hour, and many patients go home the same day.
Compared to traditional open spine surgery, microdiscectomy offers:
These benefits make microdiscectomy in San Diego a trusted option for patients seeking effective, low-impact treatment for herniated disc pain.
Ready to explore your options?
Request an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Ghosh to find out if microdiscectomy is the best approach for your spine condition.
Call (619) 810-1010 or request a consultation online.
Most patients walk the same day of surgery and return to light activity within a few days.
Full recovery usually takes four to six weeks, depending on the extent of the herniation and your overall health.
Dr. Ghosh and his team provide personalized follow-up care at his Mission Valley clinic, guiding every patient through a safe, steady recovery plan.
Physical therapy is often recommended to strengthen muscles and prevent future disc issues.
Patients across San Diego County trust Dr. Ghosh for evidence-based spine care that combines expertise with compassion.
If your leg or arm pain, weakness, or numbness hasn’t improved with therapy or medication, a microdiscectomy may be recommended after imaging confirms a herniated disc.
Discomfort is minimal. Most patients report immediate relief from nerve pain and only mild soreness at the incision site.
Most people return to normal activities in four to six weeks, with walking encouraged soon after surgery.
While rare, recurrence can occur. Dr. Ghosh provides post-surgery exercises and guidance to reduce future risk.
Learn more about other advanced spine procedures performed by Dr. Ghosh:
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Uses small incisions and specialized tools to reduce pain and speed recovery.
Laminectomy
Removes a small section of bone to decompress the spinal canal.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
Stabilizes the spine after injury, degeneration, or disc removal.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Preserves motion by replacing a damaged spinal disc with an implant.
Robotic Radiosurgery (CyberKnife)
Non-invasive radiation therapy for spinal and brain tumors.
Dr. Sanjay Ghosh welcomes patients from across San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Carmel Valley, Chula Vista, Clairemont, Coronado, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Hillcrest / Bankers Hill, La Jolla, La Mesa, Mira Mesa, Mission Valley, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe, Santee, Scripps Ranch, Solana Beach, and University City / UTC.
Patients from all regions rely on Dr. Ghosh’s Mission Valley clinic for advanced, minimally invasive spine care and lasting pain relief.
If back or leg pain from a herniated disc is affecting your quality of life, a microdiscectomy could be the key to long-term comfort and mobility.
Dr. Sanjay Ghosh and his experienced team deliver world-class spine care with a focus on precision, recovery, and patient well-being.
Call (619) 810-1010 or request your consultation online to learn if microdiscectomy in San Diego is right for you.
Patients who regained strength and independence through precise, compassionate care.
Thank you to a man who comes to this church, who’s one of the great surgeons. He did something that’s pretty much impossible. His name is Sanjay Ghosh. Everybody wants to know who did Donna’s surgery — I’m just going to tell you straight out: it’s him. You do what you want to do with that, but that’s true. And he’s amazing, and we’re so grateful. He was a gift of God to us at this particular time.
For the most of my life, I have trained and presented wildlife in public conservation education programs and the media. My work is often very physically demanding and I have used the Senta Clinic and Dr. Sanjay Ghosh to treat my spinal issues and keep me able to continue my work and manage my pain.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma or are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss or dizziness, contact Dr. Ghosh to discuss the best treatment options for you. Our team provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique condition and lifestyle.
Proudly partnering with Elisha Green – Practice Relations Liaison.
Lauren was born and raised in San Diego, California. She attended San Diego State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication in 2013. She began her professional journey in the hospitality field where she discovered her passion for helping others and building relationships. This eventually inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare, joining Sharp Healthcare in 2016 where she found great fulfillment in learning and growing within the medical field. Lauren began working with Senta Neurosurgery in 2017 supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh.
When not at work, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family, being an Auntie, traveling, and being outdoors.
Edith was born in Budapest, Hungary and immigrated to Los Angeles, CA as a small child. She later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego in 1996. From 1997 to 2002, she worked as a Program Manager at Qualcomm, during which time she also obtained a Certificate in Project Management from the University of San Diego. Edith took some time off to start her family but remained active in her volunteer efforts supporting Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, where she co-chaired nine large fundraising events and served on the Board of Directors for 5 years. During her time at Rady Children’s, Edith became passionate about healthcare and neurosurgery in particular when her daughter became a neurosurgical patient at Radys. Edith joined Senta Neurosurgery’s team supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh’s practice in 2019. Given her personal experiences, Edith knows that getting a referral to neurosurgery is a stressful, life altering event, so she truly appreciates being part of the patient care process for Dr. Ghosh’s patients.
When not at work, Edith enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, cooking, and entertaining.
Melissa has an Associate of Science Degree in Medical Office Administration. She has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. She started out working in a radiology department processing film and scheduling exams. Melissa joined Dr. Ghosh’s team in 2003 and uses her skills and experience to schedule Dr. Ghosh’s patients for surgery. She is a fierce advocate for our patients throughout the entire prior authorization and scheduling process, and her goal is to make the scheduling of our patients’ surgeries organized and stress free so that our patients can focus on healing.
Deborah is a California native. She attended American University in Washington, DC graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science and Environmental Studies. She was a college athlete, playing NCAA D1 volleyball all four years. She then attended California State University, Long Beach where she received a Masters of Marine Science in Shark Reproductive Physiology. During her first masters degree, she began transitioning into medicine and went on to receive her Master of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant studies at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. Deborah served as class Vice President. She graduated in 2017 and has been working at Senta Neurosurgery ever since. Deborah is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.
Edith was born in Budapest, Hungary and immigrated to Los Angeles, CA as a small child. She later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego in 1996. From 1997 to 2002, she worked as a Program Manager at Qualcomm, during which time she also obtained a Certificate in Project Management from the University of San Diego. Edith took some time off to start her family but remained active in her volunteer efforts supporting Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, where she co-chaired nine large fundraising events and served on the Board of Directors for 5 years. During her time at Rady Children’s, Edith became passionate about healthcare and neurosurgery in particular when her daughter became a neurosurgical patient at Radys. Edith joined Senta Neurosurgery’s team supporting Dr. Sanjay Ghosh’s practice in 2019. Given her personal experiences, Edith knows that getting a referral to neurosurgery is a stressful, life altering event, so she truly appreciates being part of the patient care process for Dr. Ghosh’s patients.
When not at work, Edith enjoys spending time with her friends and family, traveling, cooking, and entertaining.
Felix was born and raised in Abilene, Texas where he graduated from Abilene High School in 2001. He was honored with the Chuck and Doris Moser Scholarship for his accomplishments as a varsity athlete in baseball and his excellence in academics and community service. He then attended Baylor University where he graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Felix then spent a couple of years working in the laboratory at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and Johnson & Johnson. He then went on to the Keck School of Medicine at University of Southern California to obtain his Master of Physician Assistant Practice degree. Felix graduated from physician assistant school in 2010. While pursuing his PA degree at USC, Felix served as class president and spent time training in neurosurgery and orthopedic spine. Felix has been a PA with Dr. Ghosh since May 2011.
Felix enjoys being active, including playing basketball, surfing, snowboarding, golfing, and exercising. Felix is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the California Academy of Physician Assistants.
Amanda received her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology at San Diego State University in 2002. She worked as an Exercise Physiologist at the Cardiac Treatment Center at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla before going to PA School. Amanda graduated from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona with a Master of Medical Science degree in Physician Assistant studies in 2005. She began working for Dr. Ghosh in January 2006 working as the senior Physician Assistant and manager of the PAs. Amanda has spoken at the national level at the AAPA conference on various neurosurgical topics. She is highly committed to the future Physician Assistants and frequently has students shadow her and acts as a PA student preceptor. She is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Association of Neurosurgical Physician Assistants, and The San Diego Society of Physician Assistants. Amanda is honored to be a finalist for San Diego Magazine’s Woman of the Year— 2025 Healthcare Pioneer.
When not working, Amanda enjoys hiking, mountain biking, stand up paddle boarding, snowboarding, playing with her dogs and spending time with her family.
