Microscopic Decompression

Often the desired enlargement of the spinal canal and decompression of the pinched nerves is possible only with a surgical removal of protruding osteophytes. In the past, this used to be a complex surgical procedure on the open spinal canal where great parts of the vertebral arches and joints were removed (laminectomy). Modern minimally invasive techniques today allow for a very tissue-preserving intervention as nerves and blood vessels running through the spinal canal remain unhurt. Aided by a surgical microscope which greatly enlarges the operating field, a removal of the narrowing structures to the nearest millimeter is feasible. The natural physiological and biomechanical conditions are kept and the stability of the spine is maintained. Surgery and recovery times are much shorter than with conventional stenosis surgery. The obtained results are better than with traditional techniques like laminectomy where the vertebral arches are almost completely removed.

In rare cases a spinal stenosis comes along with so called degenerative slipped vertebrae. If, during surgery, a relative instability is detected, additional to the microscopic decompression, a fixation is carried out. A filament (a thick thread) is pulled around the spinous processes in a “figure of eight” as a stabilizing encirclement.

MODERN TECHNIQUE ALLOWS FOR EVEN MORE TISSUE-PRESERVING SURGERY

The tube-technique is a new microscopic decompression technique. Widening of the spinal canal is done with the aid of a so-called trocar. This small tube is inserted dorsally via a small skin incision and under microscopic sight / control, it is carefully pushed forward to the narrowed section of the spinal canal. The advantage with this small tube – the trocar – is that muscles do not have to be removed from the bone. All narrowing structures are thoroughly removed with minute surgical instruments that can be pushed forward through the trocar so that finally, the nerves are freed.

• The intervention is done under general anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes.
• There will be a follow up examination on the day after the procedure and a further examination three months later.

WHAT POSTOPERATIVE CARE IS NECESSARY?

During the first two weeks you will have to put on a specially fitted plastic corset that sustains your back which will soon allow for resuming daily activities. It is recommended to start a professionally supervised course of physiotherapy two weeks after the intervention.

WHEN MAY I RESUME MY SPORTS ACTIVITIES?

After about six weeks you should be able to go swimming or to ride a bicycle. You may resume your usual sports activities after approximately 9 weeks.

WHEN CAN I GO BACK TO WORK?

After two weeks you can resume simple office work and slight physical work. You should not do any hard physical work during the first three months and then only gradually increase.

WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE?

In the international scientific literature success rates of about 85% are quoted.

ALL ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE:

• Short surgery time
• A smaller incision and a tissue-preserving procedure where muscles and nerves remain unhurt. This leads to a less cumbersome intervention with a low complication risk
• Stability of the spinal column is preserved
• Two hours after the intervention you will be able to stand or walk without pain.
• No long hospital stay is necessary: two to three days after the intervention you may return to your home once again
• Short recovery time: Three weeks after the intervention you may resume your usual activities
• Almost no scarring
• High success rate