The Mayo Clinic states that spinal stenosis is a condition in which there is narrowing of one or more regions of the spine. This narrowing can cause pain in the back, hip, neck, shoulders or legs. In its most severe form, spinal stenosis can cause unsteadiness or urinary and stool incontinence in a condition known as cauda equina syndrome. Spinal fusion and laminectomy are the two types of surgical procedures that repair spinal stenosis.
Spinal Fusion
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), spinal fusion is a form of surgery where two or more of the vertebrae (back bones) are fused together with bone tissue obtained from the patient's hip or pelvic bone. Permanent fusion of your back bones prevents movement between your back bones. Your surgeon might decide to stabilize the back with rods and screws.
Decompressive Laminectomy
The Mayo Clinic cites decompressive laminectomy as another way to surgically treat spinal stenosis. This procedure involves removing the back portion of your vertebral bones (called the lamina) that covers the spinal cord. This will ultimately make more room for nerve fibers and afford the surgeon adequate space to remove any slipped discs or bone spurs that might be evident. This can be done through a laparoscopic procedure where the surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a tiny camera and surgical device into the back. In a more invasive procedure, the orthopedic surgeon can make a wider incision to perform this surgery. Infection, bleeding and blood clots in the leg are some of the more serious complications that can occur with decompressive laminectomy.
Laminectomy
A laminectomy, unlike a decompressive laminectomy, involves removing only a part of the lamina. This can also help decrease pressure and allow your surgeon to remove a bone spur or slipped disc with greater ease.
