Lumbar Laminectomy

What is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Lumbar spinal stenosis is where the spinal canal narrows in your lower back (see figure 1).

A narrowed spinal canal means that there is not enough space for the nerves and blood vessels. So when you exercise or stand for a time, the nerves do not work properly. You may have difficulty walking and leg pain.

What Are the Benefits of Lumbar Laminectomy Surgery?

The aim of this spinal surgery is to prevent your symptoms getting worse. You may get less pain and be able to walk further. Some people have a major improvement.

Are There Any Alternatives to Lumbar Laminectomy Surgery?

If your symptoms are mild, you may not need any treatment. If your symptoms are severe or are getting worse, surgery is usually the only option.

The Procedure

What Does the Lumbar Laminectomy Involve?

Various anaesthetic techniques are possible. The operation usually takes one to two hours.

Your surgeon will make a vertical cut on the centre of your lower back. They will part the muscles to get to your spine. Your surgeon will remove enough bone and ligament tissue to open up the narrowed part of the canal, giving the nerves and blood vessels more room.

What Complications Can Happen?

General Complications

Pain
Bleeding
Unsightly scarring
Difficulty passing urine
Infection of the surgical site (wound)
Blood clots
Chest infection
Heart attack or stroke

Specific Complications

Worse pain or numbness down your leg
Numbness between your legs, loss of normal bowel and bladder control and, for men, problems having an erection
Neuropathic pain
Tear of the thin membrane that covers the nerves in your spine
Infection in your spine
Spinal instability

Following Surgery

How Soon Will I Recover?

You should be able to go home after two to three days.

Do not lift anything heavy or twist your body. Make sure you keep a good posture when sitting and walking.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

Most people make a good recovery from surgery.

Spinal stenosis can sometimes come back.

Summary

Lumbar spinal stenosis is where the spinal canal narrows in your lower back. This may cause pain or weakness in your legs. The aim of surgery is to prevent your symptoms getting worse.

To enquire about having a Lumbar Laminectomy at New Victoria Hospital, call 020 894 9020 or fill out our contact form.

Acknowledgements

Author: Mr Richard Ashpole FRCS (Neuro. Surg.)

The operation and treatment information on this website is published under license by New Victoria Hospital from EIDO Healthcare UK and is protected by copyright laws. Other than for your personal, non-commercial use, you may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any of the information. The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.