Lumbar Microscopic Decompression Surgery

Home | Spine Surgery | Lumbar Spine Surgery in Dallas | Lumbar Microscopic Decompression Surgery

Lumbar decompression surgery is performed to relieve pain caused by neural impingement of the lower spine. The use of a robotic microscope and special instrumentation makes this a an outpatient, minimally invasive spine surgery.

The goal of lumbar microscopic decompression is to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, enabling patients to live pain-free and resume regular activities.

Indications for lumbar micro-decompression

This surgical procedure may be necessary when spinal cord compression or pinched nerves are causing radiating pain and tingling in the buttocks and legs, muscle weakness, or numbness in the lower body. Common causes of this pressure are spinal stenosis, herniated lumbar discs, and disc degeneration. Increased pressure on the spinal cord nerves can also result from spondylolisthesis, or less frequently, a tumor.

How a lumbar microscopic decompression is performed

This is a straightforward outpatient procedure performed at a surgical hospital. This lumbar spine surgery involves the following steps:

X-rays are utilized to locate the affected vertebrae
A very small incision is made
The vertebrae are exposed by gently pulling aside the soft tissue and dilating the muscles
A microscope is used to identify the source of pressure
Disc material, bone spurs, or other tissues that are causing compression are removed
The incision is closed with absorbable sutures and covered with a sterile bandage

This minimally invasive procedure lasts approximately one hour. It leaves a tiny scar and has many advantages compared to traditional, open decompression surgery.

Benefits of minimally invasive lumbar decompression

Evidence-based medicine has proven that microscopic decompression surgery of the lumbar spine offers the following benefits to patients:

Less intraoperative bleeding
More accurate
Less pain after the operation
Faster recovery
Minimal scarring
Maintains spinal stability
Less risk of muscle injury
Lower risk of postoperative infection
No general anesthesia
Performed on an outpatient basis

Recovery and post-op care

Most patients experience minimal discomfort and are able to stand and walk around on the same day of the procedure. A post-op recovery plan will be provided and may include pain relieving medication and limitations of certain activities like heavy lifting, bending, or twisting during the recovery.

The majority of patients can return to work within one week if no major physical exertion is required. Normal activities and low impact sports can be resumed after 4 -6 weeks, or when your surgeon indicates the healing process is complete. Physical therapy and certain exercises may be recommended to help strengthen the lower back and improve flexibility.

Potential risks of minimally invasive microscopic lumbar decompression

Minimally-invasive lumbar decompression has a low risk of complications when performed by an experienced spinal surgeon. Although rare, the following complications can occur with this surgery: recurrent disc herniation, pain, damage to nerve roots, and infection.

Dr. David Barnett, Dallas Spine and Neurosurgeon

When conservative treatment of a herniated lumbar disc or spinal stenosis is ineffective, micro-decompression surgery can alleviate symptoms with minimal risk of complications or downtime.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for lumbar microscopic decompression surgery in Dallas, schedule an appointment with Dr. Barnett today.

Patient Information

Seeking a second opinion?

Dr. Barnett’s 26 years of experience lends to a level of advice and treatment that will bring an end to your back pain.

Learn More >

Testimonials

What Our Patients Have to Say

From start to finish, Dr. Barnett and his staff were always informative and professional. Dr. Barnett performed my neck surgery and lower back surgery all during a pandemic and everything worked out perfect. Highly recommend Dr. Barnett. Top notch.

-Healthgrades