Spinal Decompression Surgery
Spinal decompression surgery is a general term that refers to various procedures intended to relieve symptoms caused by pressure, or compression, on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Bulging or collapsed disks, thickened joints, loosened ligaments and bony growths can narrow the spinal canal and the spinal nerve openings (foramen), causing irritation.
Symptoms of spinal nerve compression
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Weakness
- Unsteadiness
- In severe cases, pressure on the spinal nerves can cause paralysis and problems with bladder and/or bowel function.
Is decompression surgery successful?
Surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve roots is successful in relieving pain in 80% to 90% of patients. Surgery does not correct the underlying degeneration of the vertebrae due to wear and tear of aging, however, so a return of symptoms is possible.