prolapsed intervertebral disc

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prolapsed intervertebral disc (PID) n. a ‘slipped disc’: protrusion of the pulpy inner material of an intervertebral disc through a tear in the fibrous outer coat, causing pressure on adjoining nerve roots, ligaments, etc. Treatment is by rest, traction, and analgesics; if these fail, surgery may be necessary (see discectomy, laminectomy, microdiscectomy).