Lumbar Stenosis

Lumbar stenosis is narrowing of the space containing the nerves known as the spinal canal or spinal foramen. When there is compression of the canal patients often notice they can’t walk very far before they have to sit and recover. Stenosis patients also have a tendenacy to bend forward when they walk to decrease the symptoms. Some patients also have no pain but declining ability to walk and leg fatigue.

When the narrowing is of the foramen or small tunnels to the sides of the spine, this can be very painful in the leg and cause what is known as a radiculopathy.

Lumbar stenosis symptoms will often improve with medication, injections, therapy, and/or chiropractic care but if a patient fails non-surgical care, they are potential candidates for surgery.  

At Modern Spine, we offer minimally invasive solutions for almost every condition vs. traditional, open surgery.  The advantages are less risk, quicker recoveries, less muscle trauma, and great outcomes.  

MRI Showing Severe L4-5 Stenosis

At Modern Spine, you will see your own imaging and get to better understand your options for surgery and non-surgical care.

Minimally Invasive Stenosis Surgery

Lumbar stenosis is treated with either laminectomy or foraminotomy which are surgeries performed to make more room for the nerves. A laminectomy involves removal of the middle portion of the bone over the nerves whereas a foraminotomy involves removal of more lateral bone.  Often both procedures are necessary to help with nerve pain.  

The most modern way is a tubular approach that allows for muscle sparing and less trauma to the spine which is the most common approach at Modern Spine. A microscope is used to enhance visualization and assist with microsurgical care of the nerves.  The surgery for one level takes less than 1 hour and is done usually in the outpatient setting.  After surgery, most patients will be able to go home, and they will need to follow restrictions for about 4-6 weeks but are encouraged to walk as much as they can.

A microscope is used to help see and work carefully around the nerves.
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The Modern Spine Approach

I was told I had to have an open surgery because I have 2 or more levels of stenosis. Is that true?

Minimally invasive techniques allow the decompression of 1-3 levels through an incision that is less than 3/4 of an inch long.

 

Next Steps

IF you are experiencinng nerve pain and were diagnosed with a stenosis or if you need a second opinion, ask for a referral from your primary doctor, chiropracter, rehab doctor, or pain physician or just reach out to Modern Spine using the Consult Today button below or Contact Us.  We take self referrals and second opinions and consider ourselves honored if you choose us.