1 Ghrelin is a fast-acting hormone that plays a vital role in meal initiation and contributes to weight gain. 2  Leptin mediates long-term regulation of energy balance and suppresses food intake, thereby inducing weight loss.  Both hormones can be controlled naturally, primarily though exercise and stress management.
Surgical retractors. A retractor is a surgical instrument with which a surgeon can either actively separate the edges of a surgical incision or wound, or can hold back underlying organs and tissues, so that body parts under the incision may be accessed. The two are each available in many shapes, sizes, and styles.
A 1-2 centimeter longitudinal incision is made in the midline of the low back, directly over the area of the herniated disc. Special retractors and an operating microscope are used to allow the surgeon to visualize the region of the spine, with minimal or no cutting of the adjacent muscles and soft-tissues.