What is this treatment?
Lumbar decompression (Spinal Stenosis) surgery is performed to relieve pressure on spinal nerves caused by narrowing within the spinal canal (spinal stenosis), disc problems, or arthritic changes.
At One Orthopaedics, injections are performed with precision under imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement and maximise effectiveness.
Conditions treated
- Disc prolapse
- Sciatica
- Spinal stenosis
- Arthritic narrowing of the spine
- Spondylolisthesis
When is it recommended?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- Ongoing nerve-related symptoms persist
- Walking or standing becomes difficult
- Leg pain, numbness, or weakness continues
- Conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief
How the procedure works?
- Removal of bone, ligament, or disc tissue causing compression
- Performed in hospital under anaesthetic
- May involve laminectomy or interlaminar decompression techniques
Benefits:
- Reduced leg pain
- Improved mobility and walking tolerance
- Enhanced quality of life
Recovery and rehabilitation
A short hospital stay is typical. Early walking is encouraged, followed by structured physiotherapy to support recovery.
Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry some level of risk. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation, along with how they relate to your individual case.
Potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Dural tear (leak of spinal fluid)
- Nerve injury
- Recurrence of disc prolapse
- Ongoing or persistent symptoms
Less common risks may include:
- Incontinence or sexual dysfunction (approximately 1 in 3,000 cases)
- Serious complications that may be life-threatening (approximately 1 in 100,000 cases)
- Extremely rare complications such as loss of vision (estimated at around 1 in 1,000,000 cases)
Your surgeon will take every precaution to minimise these risks and ensure your safety throughout the procedure and recovery.
Frequently asked questions
When can I walk after surgery?
Walking is usually encouraged shortly after the procedure.