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Learn the Lumbar spine decompression for spinal stenosis surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Lumbar spine decompression for spinal stenosis surgical procedure.

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a very common condition affecting up to up to 47% of adults over 60 years old, although only around 9% may be symptomatic.  Symptoms often come on with standing or walking and improve with leaning forwards or sitting down.  In some instances, patients may also experience a radiculopathy while at rest.

Spinal stenosis can occur at any level of the spine.  It is most commonly caused by facet joint hypertrophy, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy, and degenerative broad disc bulges.  Since the lumbar spine and cervical spine move more than the thoracic spine, stenotic changes are more common in these mobile sections of the spine.  More forces go through the lumbar spine which means stenotic changes are most common in this area.

Spinal stenosis can affect the central canal and lateral recesses but may also cause foraminal stenosis.  It can also be associated with spondylolisthesis, retrolisthesis, and lateral listhesis as well as any spinal deformity.  There is also a subgroup of patients who have congenital stenosis that predisposes them to becoming symptomatic if they develop degenerative changes later in life.

The condition often presents insidiously with spinal claudication.  This manifests itself as paraesthesia or aching, progressing to pain and weakness.  Patients typically have spinal claudication effecting both lower limbs but it can present unilaterally.  The pain often starts when patients have been standing in one position for more than a few minutes, or if they walk for more than 5-10 minutes.  Patients will often complain symptoms are worse if they have to walk slowly around shops.  However, leaning forward on a stick, frame, or shopping trolley often alleviate their symptoms since flexion makes the lumbar spinal canal wider.  Patients also describe that they need to sit down or lean forwards to allow their symptoms to resolve.

The vast majority of patients can be managed non-operatively and should be encouraged to stay as active as possible, with modification of activities that bring on their symptoms.  However, for those who have exhausted non-operative measures, surgery may be beneficial.

Lumbar decompression is one of the most common spinal procedures and doctors managing spinal patients should be familiar with the management options available, including lumbar decompression.

 

Author: Mr Stephen Morris FRCS (Tr & Orth).

Institution: The Avon Orthopaedic Centre, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.

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