What it is
Decompression surgery removes the bone, ligament, or disc material that is narrowing the spinal canal or the openings where nerves exit. A laminectomy removes part of the lamina (the roof of the spinal canal); a foraminotomy enlarges the exit corridor of a single nerve. The goal is simple: give the nerves room, so the pain, numbness, and walking limits they were causing can improve.
When it's recommended
- Spinal stenosis with leg heaviness, numbness, or shrinking walking tolerance
- Nerve root compression (lumbar or cervical radiculopathy) not responding to conservative care
- Progressive weakness or, in the neck, signs of spinal cord compression
As with every procedure in this practice, surgery is offered only after conservative options have been genuinely explored — or when the diagnosis clearly calls for it.
How it's performed
Depending on the anatomy, decompression is frequently performed through minimally invasive tubular approaches with small incisions and minimal muscle disruption. When stenosis is accompanied by instability or slippage (spondylolisthesis), a fusion such as TLIF may be added at that level — a decision made with you, in advance.
Recovery & return to activity
- Walking the same day is standard
- Many patients notice improvement in leg symptoms early
- Often outpatient or a single overnight stay for minimally invasive cases
- Gradual return to full activity over several weeks
Recovery details vary by patient and by the specifics of each operation — your individual plan, restrictions, and milestones are set with you before surgery and refined at follow-up.
Related: Spinal Stenosis · TLIF · All Procedures
Already been told you need this procedure? A second opinion is always welcome.