Microdiscectomy versus laminectomy, what's the difference?

A laminectomy is a : Surgical removal of the roof of the spine to gain access into the spinal canal to treat conditions within that region which can include a large disc herniation but also for spinal stenosis ortumor as examples. A microdisectomy creates small opening into the roof of the spine known as a laminotomy to remove disc herniation with aid of a surgical microscope or with special magnifying glasses-loupes.

Disc vs. stenosis: A microdiscectomy is specifically tailored to remove the herniated disc, whereas a laminectomy is removing the back wall of the spine to open up the canal that the sac of nerves travel through, for central stenosis.