The mild decompression procedure for spinal stenosis is a safe, new therapeutic option to relieve pressure on the spine (spinal decompression) helping reduce lower back and leg pain and increase mobility for those patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). The minimally invasive spine surgery is image-guided so the doctor can visually see the treatment field. The procedure is performed using specialized mild devices and a local anesthetic with conscious (“awake” or “light” as opposed to “general”) sedation.
Trained, qualified physicians use the mild spinal stenosis treatment to restore space (relieve pressure on nerves) in the spinal canal while maintaining the natural supporting structure of bone and muscle in the spine. This structural stability is accomplished by locating and removing only those portions of tissue and bone that compress the spinal nerves and cause pain. In general, the mild procedure to relieve lumbar spinal stenosis takes only about an hour to perform, requires no sutures due to the minimal entry point (about the diameter of a pencil), leaves no implants behind and only a small scar remains.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Recovery
Most mild lumbar spinal stenosis surgery patients are able to return home the same day. Unlike major back surgery, mild procedure patients generally return to their typical routine within a few days. Rehabilitation following the mild spinal stenosis treatment, a minimally invasive spine surgery, is also usually much faster and easier than that of open surgical procedures.
Clinical studies have proven the mild decompression procedure for spinal stenosis to be a safe, low-risk treatment with no reported major complications for those seeking relief from lower back and leg pain and increased mobility. In addition, complication rates for the mild procedure are lower and recovery times faster than other surgical procedures for treating lumbar spinal stenosis.
Mild procedure patients are not hindered from receiving additional back surgery in the future, should it be deemed necessary. In fact, patients requiring further back surgery may be healthier due to their increased mobility and physical function following the mild procedure for lumbar spinal stenosis.
For Wellness,
Dr. Shannan McCormick