NERVE ROOT COMPRESSION ASSOCIATED WITH NARROWING OF THE LUMBAR SPINAL CANAL

Abstract

Congenital or developmental narrowing of the lumbar spinal canal can produce signs and symptoms of nerve root compression more severe than those explained on the basis of minor intrusions. Major bony alterations include thickening of the laminase and prominent bulbous posterior facets. The maximum narrowing is in the dorsoventral diameter. Since the reserve space is relatively limited, small protrusions of disc tissue or osteophytes may produce earlier symptoms and greater disability. The suggested surgical procedure is that of completely uncovering involved areas, multiple segments if necessary. If bilateral changes are evident, total laminectomy is best and to complete internal decompression, foramenotomy with removal of ligamentum flavum, spurs and abnormal disc tissue is recommended.