Spinal Decompression

Candidates have lumbar spinal stenosis causing leg pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking that has not improved after conservative treatment. Imaging must confirm significant narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve root openings. Patients must be evaluated for spinal instability, because if the spine is unstable, fusion may need to be added.

Meta-analysis shows a reoperation rate of approximately 14% over long-term follow-up. The main reasons are adjacent segment disease (54% of cases), disc herniation (32%), and new spondylolisthesis (19%). Overall, the majority of patients experience lasting improvement in leg pain, walking ability, and quality of life.

Traditional laminectomy removes the entire bony arch covering the spinal canal. Laminotomy removes only a small portion and shows lower reoperation rates. Microdecompression uses a microscope through a smaller incision. Foraminotomy specifically widens nerve root exit openings. Your surgeon will recommend the technique based on the location and severity of compression.

Plan for a 10-14 day stay near the hospital for follow-up appointments and initial recovery monitoring. Airlines generally require 7-14 days after spine surgery before flying, depending on the technique used. For the return flight, request an aisle seat to stand periodically during long-haul flights, and bring a lumbar support cushion.

Before traveling, identify a local physiotherapist experienced in post-surgical spine rehabilitation. Request a detailed rehab protocol from your overseas surgeon specifying the exercise progression and timeline. Most international spine centers provide English-language rehabilitation plans designed for patients continuing care at home. Schedule your first local physiotherapy session for 2-3 weeks after surgery.