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Spine

THE OUTCOME OF DECOMPRESSION FOR SPINAL STENOSIS FROM A SINGLE CENTRE

The Society for Back Pain Research (SBPR) Annual General Meeting: ‘Spotlight on sciatica’



Abstract

Introduction

Decompression is the gold standard surgical technique in patients with symptomatic spinal stenosis not responding to conservative management. We present an audit of outcomes in a population of patients undergoing this procedure over a four year period.

Method

All patients undergoing lumbar decompression were assessed preoperatively and between 4 and 12 months postoperatively using the Oswestry Disabilty Index (ODI %), pain scale (0–10) and patient satisfaction. The patient's age, the number of levels decompressed and the incidence of complications were recorded.

Results

Data is expressed as mean ±SD. Of 127 patients 112 were available for follow up. Mean age at surgery was 68.8±11.8 years. 55% of patients had a single level decompression, 36% 2 levels, 9% 3 levels. L4/5 was the most frequently decompressed level (51%) Improvement in ODI was 13.9±11.7(p<0.0001), improvement in pain scores 2.9±3.0 (p<0.0001). Improvement was the same regardless of number of levels decompressed (ANOVA p=0.84). There was no association between outcome and age. Dural tears occurred in 8.9% of patients, with post operative infection in 2.7%. The presence or absence of post operative complications did not significantly affect outcome. Based on outcome 87% of patients were happy with their surgical experience and outcome.

Conclusion

Lumbar decompression remains an effective treatment for stenosis by improving ODI and pain scores. Age and number of decompression levels do not influence outcome. There is a high level of patient satisfaction with the procedure.


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No conflict of interest

No funding obtained

This abstract is original work and has not previously been published or presented at any national meetings.