Decompression And Spine Fusion Surgery

Compressed or pinched nerve roots can make life very tough. But then with the advancements in medical science, patients today have the option of choosing a posterior lumbar decompression surgery. It involves removal of part of the lamina (laminotomy) or the whole lamina (laminectomy) and any bony structure that might be compressing the nerve roots. Whereas, in the case of alumbar spinal fusion screws are inserted into the vertebraeconnected by rods. The main objective of a spine fusion surgery is to reduce pain by preventing movement between theaffected vertebrae and realigning the spinal column.

• Procedure

A small 5-10 cm incision (cut) is made and the muscle is detached from the underlying bone (laminae) and either a part of the lamina (laminotomy) or whole lamina (laminectomy) is removed to get to the nerve roots. Anything compressing the nerve roots is removed and the procedure is called a spinal decompression. Whereas, in the case of a spinal fusion screws are inserted into the vertebrae andbone (graft) taken from the pelvis is placed across the operated levels.This way a new bone formsanywhere from 3-6 months between the twovertebrae.

Recovery and Costs

After the surgery patients stay in the hospital for 3-5 days. But thenonce discharged and at home it is important for a patient to stay active and take short walks. From here on, the patient should gradually increase the walking distance each day but should avoid a hectic and strenuouslifestyle. Spine Decompression Surgery cost in India starts from 4500USD whereas the same procedure in the USA can start from 80000 USD and can even go up to 150000 USD