01 — Overview
Lumbar surgery covers a wide range, from an endoscopic discectomy to a multi-level reconstruction. The most consequential decision is not which technique to use but whether the segment needs stabilizing at all, since a decompression that preserves the facet joints is a considerably smaller operation than a fusion.
02 — Who it suits
- Sciatica from a herniated disc that has not resolved
- Leg symptoms from lumbar stenosis
- Instability with mechanical back pain and leg symptoms
- Recurrent herniation after prior surgery
03 — How it is done
Through a tube, an endoscope or a small open exposure, the compressive tissue is removed under magnification. If standing films show a slip, or if the decompression compromises the facet joints, an interbody fusion may be added at the same sitting.
04 — Recovery
Recovery after decompression alone is generally shorter than after a fusion, where bone healing sets the timeline. Your expected course is discussed with you before you decide on surgery.
05 — Conditions treated
- Lumbar Disc Disease Degeneration or herniation of discs in the lower back, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs due to nerve compression.
- Spinal Stenosis A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Herniated Disc A condition where the inner gel-like core of a spinal disc bulges out through a tear in the outer layer, causing pain and neurological symptoms.
- Spondylolisthesis & Spinal Instability A condition where a vertebra slips out of place onto the bone below it, causing pain and nerve compression.
Timelines and techniques described here are general. Your own plan depends on your anatomy, your imaging and your medical history, and is decided with you at consultation.
