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Vertebra, lumbar (low back)
Vertebra, lumbar (low back)
Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)
Vertebra, thoracic (mid back)
Herniated lumbar disk
Herniated lumbar disk

Spinal surgery - lumbar
Definition:

Lumbar spinal surgery is used to correct problems with the spinal bones (vertebrae), disks, or nerves of the lower back (lumbar spine).

See also spinal fusion and spinal surgery - cervical.
Alternative Names:
Lumbar spinal surgery

Description:

The spine consists of bones (vertebrae) separated by soft cushions (disks). Pressure on the nerves that branch off the spinal cord can produce pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness and may be caused by the following:

Patients with spinal pain in the neck or back are usually treated conservatively before surgery is considered. Bedrest, traction, anti-inflammatory medications (nonsteroid and steroid), physical therapy, braces, and exercise are often prescribed.

Maintaining good health, muscle strength, and body posture with appropriate rest and exercise help prevent unnecessary strain on the spine and muscles.

Lumbar spinal surgery is done while the patient is under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). An incision is made over the troubled area. The bone that curves around and covers the spinal cord (lamina) is removed (laminectomy) and the tissue that is causing pressure on the nerve or spinal cord is removed.

The hole through which the nerve passes may be enlarged to prevent further pressure on the nerve. Sometimes, a piece of bone (bone graft) or metal rods (such as Harrington rods) may be used to strengthen the area of surgery.

Occasionally, strong screws (pedicle screws) are used to stabilize the rods to the bones.
Indications:
Symptoms of lumbar spine problems include:
  • Pain that extends (radiates) from the back to the buttocks or back of thigh
  • Pain that interferes with daily activities
  • Weakness of legs or feet
  • Numbness of legs, feet, or toes
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia include the following: Risks for any surgery include the following: Additional risks of spinal surgery include the following:
Expectations after surgery:
The outcome depends on the source of the problem or the extent of the injury but most patients do very well after surgery.
Convalescence:

The hospital stay is about 7 days. You will be encouraged to walk the first or second day after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots (deep venous thrombosis).

Complete recovery takes about five weeks. Heavy work is not recommended until several months after surgery or not at all.
Review Date: 11/13/2002
Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, M.D., Department of Orthopedic Surgery, NYU/Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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