Decompression Surgery
Summary
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose of decompression | Widen the nerve pathway to relieve pressure |
| Guideline recommendation | Recommended for LSS without instability when conservative treatment has failed (Evidence level B) |
| Outcomes | Superior to conservative treatment at 2 years, though the difference narrows over time |
| Types of surgery | Laminectomy, laminoplasty, endoscopic surgery, and others |
| If instability is present | Fusion surgery may be added |
| Risks | Infection, dural tear, nerve injury, among others |
| Recovery | Discharge in a few days to 2 weeks; gradual improvement over months |
| If pain persists | Reoperation and SCS are available options |
Next Steps
→ Fusion Surgery — The surgery that may be combined with decompression when spinal instability is present
→ Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) — Another option if pain persists after surgery
💎 Detailed Treatment Comparison — Compare costs and risks of decompression, fusion, and SCS (Members only)
💎 Questions for Your Doctor — A helpful checklist for your surgical consultation (Members only)
This page provides medically accurate information, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your individual situation.