Do You Need Lumbar Canal Stenosis Surgery? | Dr. Pramod Chaurasia

The reopening of your spinal canal, which is the channel in your backbone that houses your spinal cord and other nerves, is aided by lumbar canal stenosis surgery.

When the space in the canal narrows due to arthritis, bone spurs, or other issues, a doctor performs the surgery. Nerves can be pinched or squeezed due to this.

It usually affects people in their 40s or 50s. But younger patients born with a narrow spinal canal can also develop spinal stenosis.

 
Some of the symptoms include pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, hips, groin, buttocks, and lower back. Sometimes the leg pain is so severe that you are unable to walk.

Continue reading this article to know more about lumbar canal stenosis surgery.

When Should You Consider Lumbar Canal Stenosis Surgery?

Surgery is usually considered after all other treatment options have failed due to the complexity of spinal stenosis and the spine's delicate nature. Most spinal stenosis patients don't require surgery. However, discuss surgical options with Dr. Pramod Chaurasia if:

• Your symptoms have become intolerable
• Experiencing severe pain due to the pressure on the spinal cord
• Difficulty while walking and maintaining your balance
•  Lost control of your bowels or bladder

Surgery may also be necessary for medical emergencies, such as tumours, infections, cauda equina syndrome, or conus medullaris syndrome, to prevent nerve damage and preserve leg function.

How To Prepare For Lumbar Canal Stenosis Surgery?

To prepare for spine surgery, quit smoking and drinking. Your doctor may also recommend exercise before surgery to help you recover faster. Also, ask your doctor if you should stop taking any non-essential medications, supplements, or herbal remedies. Also, don't be afraid to ask your healthcare team any questions or express any concerns you may have.

Is Spinal Surgery Risky?

All surgeries have an infection, bleeding, blood clots, and anaesthesia reaction risks.

Complications arise in case of people who smoke, are elderly or overweight, have diabetes or other serious medical problems. Specific risks associated with spinal stenosis include:

• Nerve damage.
• A tear in the membrane that surrounds a nerve or the spinal cord
• After surgery, the bone fails to heal
• Symptoms persist or return of symptoms

What Happens After Surgery?

After surgery, some people may need to stay in the hospital for a few days, while others may be able to go home the same day or the next. It typically depends on the type of surgery you have and your health.

Once you've returned home, it may take 3 months or longer to fully recover.

Dr. Pramod Chaurasia will most likely advise you to begin walking and doing other exercises to strengthen your back.

Points To Note

Spinal surgery is elective, which means the patient can choose whether or not to have it. The severity of a patient's pain and dysfunction, the impact of symptoms on daily activities, and their ability to cope with the procedure are all important considerations in a patient's decision to consent to surgery. Additionally, a patient must understand the procedure's risks, benefits, and alternatives.