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Lumbar Decompression Surgery
Lower back pain can cause severe pain, limit mobility, weakness & numbness in the legs, and lead to postural changes. Numerous disorders such as degenerative disc diseases, spinal stenosis, and herniated discs can compress nerves resulting in persistent lower back pain. The goal of treatments like lumbar decompression surgery is to reduce pressure and stress on the lower spine nerves and spinal cord.
If you are experiencing symptoms of lower back pain, consult with the best orthopedists at the CK Birla Hospital to explore the most suitable treatment options for your condition.
Lumbar Decompression Surgery
What is Lumbar Decompression Surgery?
Lumbar decompression surgery is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the lower back by trimming or removing parts of bone or tissue to create more space to reduce nerve compression.
What are the Types of Lower Back Problems?
- Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
- Herniated Disc: Severe pain caused when the spinal disc ruptures pressing on nearby nerves.
- Spondylolisthesis: Results from slippage of vertebrae causing lower back pain and numbness.
- Sciatica: Associated with compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve causing pain & tingling.
- Spinal Tumours: Abnormal growths or infections compressing spinal nerves.
What are the types of Lumbar Decompression Surgery?
- Discectomy: Involves removal of damaged disc to release pressure on the nerves.
- Laminectomy: Surgery involving the removal of a portion of the vertebrae to enlarge the spinal canal.
- Foraminotomy: Procedure involving removing bones & tissues to enlarge the foramen.
- Corpectomy: Treatment involving the removal of a vertebra or disc to stabilise the spine.
- Osteophyte Removal: Invasive surgery aimed at removing bone spurs & outgrowths of bone.
What is the Average Cost of Lumbar Decompression Surgery?
- Discectomy: Typically ranges from ₹1,40,000 to ₹2,00,000.
- Laminectomy: Generally costs between ₹1,66,380 to ₹2,32,500
- Foraminotomy: Can range from ₹3,70,000 to ₹5,90,000
- Corpectomy: Costs approximately ₹2,50,000 to ₹5,50,000.
- Osteophyte Removal: Ranges from ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000.
These figures are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances, hospital facilities, and additional services required.
Any complications associated with untreated Lower Back Problems?
- Chronic Pain: Persistent pain in the back or side, often radiating to legs, buttocks, and hips.
- Muscle Weakness: Long-term nerve compression can weaken the muscles in the lower back.
- Nerve Damage: Compression of the spinal nerve may cause numbness, tingling, paralysis, and permanent nerve damage.
- Limited Mobility: Stiffness and restricted range of motion may hinder movements like bending, walking, twisting, standing, etc.
- Weight Gain: Reduced physical activity due to persistent pain leading to weight gain.
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Preventive Measures Against Lower Back Problems
- Maintain Good Posture: Keep the posture right to reduce strain on the spine.
- Exercise Regularly: Helps strengthen the abdominal and back muscles.
- Lift Properly: Maintain the right posture while lifting and twisting.
- Maintain Healthy Weight: Helps avoid excess stress on the lower back.
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Take frequent breaks, move, and stretch to avoid straining the back.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery Over Traditional Open Surgery
| Category | Minimally Invasive Surgery | Traditional Open Surgery |
| Blood loss | Less blood loss during surgery | More blood loss during surgery |
| Risk of Infection |
Lower risk of infection |
Higher risk of infection |
| Complications | Less risk of complication | Higher risk of complication |
| Pain | Less pre-operative pain | More pain due to larger incision |
| Recovery Time | Faster recovery within weeks | Slower recovery, may take months |
|
Cosmetic Outcome |
Minimal scarring | Noticeable scars |
Diagnosis of Lower Back Problems
An orthopedist performs a physical examination in order to accurately diagnose lower back issues. In addition to reviewing the medical history, the doctor may use the following tests to assess your condition.- Bone Scans: To assess disc degeneration, bone spurs, and other abnormalities.
- X-ray: To evaluate bone spurs, disc degeneration & other abnormalities.
- CT Scan: Provides cross-sectional imaging of bones to detect fractures & other issues.
- MRI: To identify abnormalities with soft tissues, nerves, discs, etc.
Pre-Treatment/Surgery Instructions
- Follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol and tobacco to promote healing.
- Avoid eating or drinking, typically 6–8 hours before surgery (If surgery is recommended).
- Arrange for someone to drive you home.
Post-Treatment/Surgery Instructions:
- The patient will be observed for a few hours post-surgery.
- Hospital discharge typically occurs on the same day or the next day, depending on the surgery type and recovery progress.
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending, twisting, or strenuous activities.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Recovery from Lower Back Treatment
- Initial recovery within 1-2 weeks.
- Full recovery and return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks.
- The ability to perform daily tasks improves significantly after the initial recovery phase.
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FAQs Around Lumbar Decompression Surgery
Where are the lumbar vertebrae found?
Lumbar spine is the lower spine between the thoracic vertebrae and the pelvis.
Do lumbar decompression belts work?
Yes, lumbar decompression belts work and ease the pressure on the lower back.
Is lumbar decompression surgery serious?
Lumbar decompression surgery is considered safe.
What does decompression do for your back?
Decompression helps with relieving back pain by reducing pressure on the nerves and spinal cord.