What Is Lumbar Decompression Surgery?

What is lumbar decompression surgery, and what does the recovery period look like? We sit down with Mr Andrew Frost, consultant spinal surgeon, at the Albyn Hospital in Aberdeen. Mr Frost shares his expert knowledge on everything you need to know about the procedure and how it can help you. Mr Frost has performed this surgery countless times, so if you’re in search of information you can trust, you're in the right place.
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What is lumbar decompression surgery?
Lumbar decompression surgery, also known as lumbar decompressive laminectomy or spinal decompression surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the nerves in your lower spine. This pressure can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking. Lumbar decompression surgery is recommended when other treatment, including medication and physiotherapy, has not successfully helped alleviate pressure on your nerves.
Why might you need lumbar decompression surgery?
The most common reason why you might need lumbar decompression surgery is for spinal stenosis. This occurs when your spinal canal narrows due to age-related changes, which puts pressure on the nerves inside. The facet joints in the spine can swell when they become worn and arthritic. This can then lead to the nerves being squashed by these arthrtitic joints.
A herniated or bulging disc occurs when the soft, inner core of an intervertebral disc in your back pushes through its tough outer layer and presses down a nearby nerve. The bones of the spine can sometimes move and slip on one another and cause narrowing of the canal that the nerves run through.
All of these degenerative changes in your spines can result in pressure on your nerves. Other less common causes include accidents or injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, or trauma from severe impact to your spine.
There are many reasons why you might need this surgery. The sooner you get help for your symptoms, the sooner you can get the right treatment.
How do you prepare for lumbar decompression surgery?
It is important to follow your consultant's instructions regarding medications you may need to stop taking before the surgery. This can include blood-thinning medication and herbal supplements that could interfere with the anaesthesia.
We also recommend arranging a solid support system for during your recovery. You may need help with daily activities such as bathing and dressing yourself as you recover. Having friends and family to assist you can make a significant difference in your recovery and comfort levels.
Since you will not be able to drive home immediately after surgery, arrange for someone to drive you back home from hospital. Your healthcare team will ensure you have a detailed description of how to prepare for surgery.
What happens during lumbar decompression surgery?
During surgery, you will be placed under general anaesthesia. Your consultant will make a cut in your lower back and use specialised tools to remove any bone spurs, damaged tissue, or herniated discs. They may also use screws, rods, or other devices to stabilise your spine and keep it in proper alignment. The overall duration of the surgery can vary depending on the severity of your condition, the technique used by your consultant, and other factors.
What are the different types of lumbar decompression surgery?
Three of the main procedures used for spinal decompression surgery are a laminectomy, where a section of bone is removed from one of your vertebrae to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. A discectomy, where a section of a damaged disc is removed, and a spinal fusion, where two or more vertebrae are joined together with a bone graft.
Each surgery has a different technique and recovery period.
If you have spinal problems and would like help, you can book an appointment with an orthopaedic consultant or spinal surgeon to begin your treatment journey. Leave a comment below if you’d like more expert videos from consultants about surgery for spinal problems.
Further Links - 
Mr Andrew Frost is a consultant spinal surgeon at the Albyn Hospital in Aberdeen: www.circleheal...
www.circleheal...
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