Spinal Stenosis Surgery

Ashvin Patel M.D. FAAOS

Goal - The goal of the surgery (often called a decompressive laminectomy)  is to remove the bone spurs compressing the spinal nerves.

MRI  (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) - Is the diagnostic test of choice to assist in determining if there are areas where arthritic bone spurs are pushing on the nerves. It is an advanced radiology test  where the patient is placed inside a magnetic field which can create detailed images of areas inside the body. Usually, dyes are not given, therefore, there are no needles, IV’s or catheters placed in the patient.

Surgery  -  The procedure is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia and typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Patients are admitted to the hospital the day of the surgery and usually go home in one or three days. However, depending on the individual patient and the extent of the procedure, a longer hospital stay may be needed.

Immediately after Surgery

·        Most patients have significant improvement in leg symptoms immediately after surgery.

·        Patients usually go to the orthopedic unit after recovery.

·        Pain medication are given to relieve wound incision pain.

·        The physical therapy team assists patients with walking the day after surgery.

·        Patients begin to drink fluids and return to normal diet within 24 hours after surgery.

·        Home health agencies can be used to do dressing changes and assess patients at home.

First 2 Weeks After Surgery

·        During this phase the low back incision begins to heal and becomes much less painful.

·        The leg symptoms from the nerve compression usually improve rapidly.

·        Daily dressing changes are needed but are quite easy to do.

·        Sponge baths are recommended until the first office visit one week after the surgery.

·        Daily walking and stretching exercises are encouraged. There should be no excessive activity such as sports or heavy lifting. Also, bending and twisting should be limited.

2-6 Weeks After Surgery

·        Daily walking is increased to 20 to 30 minutes three times a day.  Routine daily activities are permitted, but excessive activity is not advised.

·        Most patients do not need any pain medications during this period.

·        There are no bathing limitations.

·        If residual lower leg weakness is present physical therapy for the legs can be started soon after surgery.

·        Most return to work doing light duty activities at 2 to 3 weeks.

·        At 6 weeks after the surgery there are usually no significant limitations and those who play golf and tennis can again enjoy these activities.

·        Physical therapy is also prescribed at this point to strengthen the low back muscles.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office with any questions regarding this or any other educational handout we have provided.