I take it the disk has fragmented? (Usually surgery isn't the first option for herniated disks.) Or is it just because of his current pain levels/immobility? Ouchy in any case. Hopefully it will be a simple, out-patient sort of thing for him. Will they be doing a lumbar microdiscectomy, or something else?

You're in my thoughts; hope all goes well. If you need any support, kid care, anything -- please let me know.