Surgical vs. nonsurgical treatment for sciatica

In a systematic review and meta analysis of 24 trials, very low to low certainty evidence suggests that discectomy was superior to nonsurgical treatment or epidural steroid injections in reducing leg pain and disability in patients with sciatica, but benefits diminished over time. Discectomy might be an option for those who feel that the rapid relief it offers outweighs the risks and costs associated with surgery.