What Is Lumbar Stenosis Surgery?

• In simple terms: We create more space in the lower back by removing bone, ligaments, or disc material that are compressing nerves.
  
  

• Scientifically: Lumbar decompression may include laminectomy, laminotomy, foraminotomy, or discectomy to enlarge the spinal canal and foramina. When instability exists, procedures like TLIF or XLIF combine decompression with stabilization.
  
  

Conditions Treated

• Lumbar spinal stenosis
  
  

• Neurogenic claudication (pain with walking, relieved by sitting/flexion)
  
  

• Radiculopathy (leg pain, numbness, tingling)
  
  

• Spondylolisthesis with instability
  
  

• Recurrent disc herniations with stenosis
  
  

• Combined stenosis and degenerative deformity
  
  

Types of Lumbar Stenosis Surgery

1. Laminectomy

• Removal of lamina and ligamentum flavum to enlarge spinal canal.
  
  

• Classic treatment for lumbar stenosis.
  
  

• Learn more → Laminectomy / Foraminotomy
  
  

2. Laminotomy / Foraminotomy

• Removes part of lamina or enlarges foraminal exit for nerves.
  
  

• Minimally invasive with smaller incision.
  
  

3. Decompression with Fusion

• Used when instability is present or created by decompression.
  
  

• Options: TLIF, PLIF, XLIF.
  
  

4. Coflex Interlaminar Stabilization

• Motion-preserving alternative after decompression in select patients.
  
  

• Learn more → Coflex Placement
  
  

The Lumbar Stenosis Procedure: Step by Step

Plain-English Overview

1. Anesthesia & positioning: You’re asleep under general anesthesia, lying face down.
   
   

2. Small incision(s): Made in the lower back at affected level(s).
   
   

3. Decompression: Lamina, ligamentum flavum, and bone spurs removed to open canal.
   
   

4. Nerve release: Nerve roots and dura freed from compression.
   
   

5. Stabilization (if needed): Screws, rods, or cages added to prevent instability.
   
   

6. Closure: Small sutures or glue used; many walk the same day.
   
   

Surgeon-Level Detail

• Docking: MIS tubular retractor positioned over lamina; microscope provides magnification.
  
  

• Bone removal: High-speed drill and Kerrisons thin lamina; ligamentum flavum resected.
  
  

• Foraminotomy: Medial facetectomy widens nerve root exit.
  
  

• Fusion decision: Based on slip, motion, or facet removal; interbody cage + pedicle screws if instability present.
  
  

• Closure: Meticulous hemostasis; layered closure.
  
  

Benefits of Lumbar Stenosis Surgery

• Reliable relief of leg pain, numbness, and cramping
  
  

• Improved walking and standing tolerance
  
  

• Minimally invasive options mean smaller scars and faster recovery
  
  

• Motion-preserving options available in select cases
  
  

• High long-term success when diagnosis is correct
  
  

Risks & Limitations

• Infection, bleeding, CSF leak
  
  

• Nerve injury (rare with neurosurgical precision)
  
  

• Scar tissue or recurrent stenosis
  
  

• Possible spinal instability requiring fusion
  
  

• Longer recovery if multi-level decompression/fusion performed
  
  

Recovery Timeline

• Day 0–1: Walking same or next day; most stay 0–2 nights
  
  

• Weeks 1–2: Light activity, daily walking encouraged
  
  

• Weeks 2–6: Desk work possible; PT often begins
  
  

• 6–12 weeks: Progressive activity; restrictions lifted gradually
  
  

• 3–6 months: Improved mobility, leg strength, and function
  
  

• 6–12 months: Fusion (if performed) confirmed on X-rays; long-term recovery achieved
  
  

Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?

• Neurosurgeon-led expertise: Dr. Greenwald has decades of experience in lumbar decompression and fusion
  
  

• Advanced MIS techniques: Smaller incisions, less muscle damage, quicker recovery
  
  

• Full spectrum of options: From decompression alone to fusion or Coflex, all tailored to the patient
  
  

• Compassionate care: We guide patients through diagnosis, surgery, and rehab with clarity and support
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need lumbar stenosis surgery?

If walking or standing causes leg pain/numbness that improves with sitting/flexing, and conservative care has failed, surgery may help.

What’s the difference between laminectomy and laminotomy?

Laminectomy removes the whole lamina; laminotomy removes part. Both create more space for nerves.

Will I need a fusion with decompression?

Not always. Fusion is added only when instability exists or is created during surgery.

How soon can I walk after surgery?

Most patients walk the same day, with steady improvement in leg symptoms.

How does Desert Spine and Pain perform lumbar stenosis surgery differently?

We use microsurgical and minimally invasive decompression, reserving fusion for when it’s truly necessary, always with neurosurgical precision.