THE OUTCOME OF DECOMPRESSION FOR SPINAL STENOSIS FROM A SINGLE CENTRE

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.