Decompression
The spine canal becomes narrowed, and as a result the nerve roots inside become more and more crowded. This causes a feeling of aching fatigue and heaviness in the legs.
The Operation
How long does the surgery take?
The operation normally takes one to two hours.
Where is the incision made?
The patient is positioned face down and a small midline incision is made over the affected level. Where only one level is being decompressed this will be about 5 cm long in a slim patient but will be longer if additional levels require attention.
What happens during the procedure?
The muscles against the spine are retracted to the side just enough to allow access to the back of the spine at the level of the narrowing in the spinal canal. A small window into the spinal canal is created between the vertebrae by removing some of the central portion of the ligament in the canal (ligamentum flavum) which is often contributing to the narrowing. After protecting the underlying nerves, the opening is gradually enlarged by removing further ligament and some of the bone from the lamina. Using microsurgical instruments further material is carefully and painstakingly removed from within the canal, paying particular attention to the area beneath the facet joints. This area is called the lateral recess and is often where nerves are particularly compressed. If needed some of the bulging disc will be removed if this is affecting the space in the canal.
At the end of the operation Mr Boeree will insert an epidural catheter to help with your post-operative pain control. The nerve roots will also be protected with a barrier gel (Adcon-L) to reduce the risk of scarring.
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In memory of Nick Boeree
Following the sudden death of Nick Boeree we have set up a tribute page to allow you to share your memories, thoughts, and feelings. Click here.
You know when you talk to someone and you just know, 'this is someone I can trust to do the job right'. I had this immediate sensation with Nick
Marti Conger
