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Surgical Treatment of Spinal Stenosis
The most common surgical approach for spinal stenosis is a decompressive laminectomy. The goal of surgery is to remove the bone, ligament and/or disc which is compressing the spinal sac and nerve roots. The number of levels in your spine that need to be decompressed is determined by testing which may. include an MRI. myelogram and CAT scan. and an EMG. Click on these tests for more information.
Surgery is often recommended when conservative management has failed to afford relief of symptoms.
Surgery is considered when one or more of the following are present:
- It is difficult to walk or stand.
- Pain limits your normal activities, resulting in diminished quality of life.
- Weakness and numbness involving your legs.
- You do not have a major medical condition that would put you at high risk for surgery.
- Bowel or bladder control problems.
The majority of patients who undergo surgery experience good results, obtaining years of relief of symptoms and improved quality of life. In a small percentage of patients, a degree of spinal instability or scoliosis (curvature of the spine) is present. This is determined prior to surgery, necessitating the addition of a spinal fusion to be performed.
Your Recovery
- Hospital stay is generally 2-4 days.
- Staples are removed in the office in 7-10 days.
- Click here for more information regarding Recovery Process and Care of Your Incision following a decompressive lumbar laminectomy.
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