Newport Beach Lumbar Decompression Surgery
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Back Pain
The spine contains several nerves that send signals to and from the brain. Over time, wear and tear on the spine can exert pressure on the nerves as the spine’s structure weakens. Lumbar decompression surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can relieve this pressure and provide relief from the pain.
There are several different kinds of lumbar decompression surgeries, including:
- Laminectomy – In this procedure, a small piece of bone is removed from one of the vertebrae, thus relieving pressure on the damaged nerve.
- Discectomy – Between each vertebra is a rubbery circle of cartilage called a disc. A damaged disc can put pressure on the nerves. This procedure removes the damaged disc to relieve nerve pressure.
- Spinal Fusion – Often done in conjunction with the procedures above, spinal fusion fuses two vertebrae together to stabilize and strengthen the spine.
This procedure is minimally invasive, which means that it only requires small incisions and the risk of complications is low. However, it often does require IV anesthesia so that patients are comfortable through the operation.
The skilled surgeon at Regenerative Institute of Newport Beach can tell you more about lumbar decompression surgery and if it’s the right treatment for you. Call (949) 301-8683 today.
What to Expect After Surgery
You will need some time to recover after the procedure, so be prepared to take time off work or school. It would be helpful to have someone stay with you for a few days to help with basic chores and food preparation.
Lumbar decompression has proven to be a very effective treatment for severe, chronic back pain. It is often recommended for patients who have had a difficult time walking due to leg pain caused by damaged spinal nerves. This treatment should provide the relief you need to walk without discomfort. However, you and your doctor must confirm the source of the pain before planning the surgery. This is why it is recommended patients explore noninvasive treatments before considering this option.