SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERY

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERY

WHAT IS SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERY?

Spinal decompression surgery is a general term that refers to various procedures intended to relieve symptoms caused by pressure, or compression, on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. You have several options, including a corpectomy, a discectomy, a laminotomy, a foraminotomy, or osteophyte removal. 

WHY ARE SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERIES DONE?

Spinal decompression surgery is a general term that refers to various procedures intended to relieve symptoms caused by pressure, or compression, on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Bulging or collapsed disks, thickened joints, loosened ligaments, and bony growths can narrow the spinal canal and the spinal nerve openings (foramen), causing irritation. 

Symptoms of spinal nerve compression include:

  • Pain
  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Weakness
  • Unsteadiness

In severe cases, pressure on the spinal nerves can cause paralysis and problems with bladder and/or bowel function. 

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERY?

The risks associated with spinal decompression surgery include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Blood Clots
  • Nerve or Tissue Damage
  • Allergic reaction to Anesthesia

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS FOR SPINAL DECOMPRESSION SURGERY?

You will stay in the hospital for 4 or 5 days, depending on the extent of your surgery. You will be given medication to control pain. Rehabilitation may be lengthy and will likely include a program of physical therapy. 

IS DECOMPRESSION SURGERY SUCCESSFUL?

Surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve roots is successful in relieving pain in 80% to 90% of patients. Surgery does not correct the underlying degeneration of the vertebrae due to wear and tear of aging, however, so a return of symptoms is possible.

 

 

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