Surgical Options for Lumbar Stenosis

Lumbar stenosis is a very common condition where the spinal column narrows and compresses the spinal cord.  Many patients experience back pain, tingling or numbness and difficulty walking, balancing or standing. It is diagnosed via physical exam, testing and imaging.  Non-surgical treatment options for spinal stenosis include physical therapy, injections, nerve blocks, and/or medications. Surgical treatments for lumbar stenosis include disc replacement, muscle sparing minimally invasive fusion (XLIF, ALIF, TLIF, etc.) and laminectomy. Robotics, augmented reality and other technologies are applied when indicated for a particular procedure.

Following surgery, most patients are able to get out of bed and walk independently within hours.  Many patients experience immediate relief from pain and numbness.  Depending upon the severity of the stenosis and the surgery performed, the patient may return home either the same day or within a couple of  days. Most patients are able to perform the majority of activities of daily living immediately (or within a few days) after surgery. Pain medication use will vary depending upon the procedure.  Activity levels, pain management and care of the incision will be thoroughly discussed with the patient prior to and after the procedure.