A lumbar laminectomy (aka lumbar decompression) can be performed for a variety of lumbar spine conditions or in conjunction with other spine procedures. Lumbar spinal stenosis is the most common condition treated with a laminectomy. Lumbar spinal stenosis can result in a condition called neurogenic claudication (nerve root pressure). The classic signs of symptoms of neurogenic claudication include lower extremity pain, numbness, tingling and/or weakness with standing that improves with sitting down or leaning forward.

PROCEDURE

The surgery is performed through a midline skin incision in the lower back.  The posterior bone arch is removed with microsurgical instruments to create more room in the central spinal canal. After the canal and nerves are decompressed, the skin is closed using dissolvable sutures and sterile superglue. Some patient’s may require a back brace after surgery. Most patients will have immediate relief of their leg pain.