What Is Lumbar Decompression Surgery and How Can It Help You?

Lumbar decompression surgery is a prevalent procedure used to alleviate the painful symptoms caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal or vertebral foramen, often referred to as lumbar spinal stenosis. This surgical intervention aims to remove the compressive elements that are pressing on the nerves of the spine, offering relief to patients suffering from persistent discomfort.

One of the common types of lumbar decompression surgery performed at institutions like HSS includes the laminectomy. In a laminectomy, the lamina or the back part of the vertebra covering the spinal canal is removed. This procedure increases the space within the spinal canal and relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Other variations include laminotomy, laminoplasty, and microdiscectomy.

Another common surgical procedure is the discectomy. This is specifically designed to treat a herniated disc, which happens when a portion of a spinal disc bulges or ruptures out of its position, pressing on a spinal nerve.

For those looking into spinal fusion techniques, the Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) offers a solution. In TLIF, two spinal bones (vertebrae) are fused by taking out a part of the spinal disc between them and placing a cage, bolstered by screws and rods, in the void left behind.

In essence, the primary goal of lumbar decompression is to ease pain caused by pinched nerves. Patients considering this surgical option should consult with specialized centers like Northwell or URMC Rochester to ensure they’re making an informed decision tailored to their specific needs.