Background

Procedure

Endoscopic Spinal Stenosis Decompression

Endoscopic spinal stenosis decompression restores the full diameter of the spinal canal and nerve exit foramina through a 7 mm incision — relieving the leg pain and weakness of neurogenic claudication with minimal surgical trauma.

Overview

About This Procedure

Spinal stenosis decompression aims to remove the structural elements causing canal narrowing — thickened ligamentum flavum, arthritic bone spurs, and bulging disc — without destabilising the spine. The endoscopic approach allows Dr. Sparsh Jaiswal to achieve a thorough bilateral decompression through a unilateral access (ULBD — unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression), preserving the midline structures and facet joints that maintain spinal stability. Unlike open laminectomy, endoscopic ULBD preserves the posterior tension band — significantly reducing the risk of post-decompression instability.

Indications

  • check_circleLumbar central or foraminal stenosis causing neurogenic claudication
  • check_circleCervical stenosis causing myelopathy or radiculopathy
  • check_circleFailed conservative management including injections
  • check_circleElderly patients unfit for open surgery due to anaesthetic risk
  • check_circleRecurrent stenosis after prior open decompression

Step-by-Step Procedure

01

Positioning & Target Localisation

Prone positioning with fluoroscopic localisation of the stenotic level(s). Epidural or general anaesthesia. Neuromonitoring applied.

02

Unilateral 7 mm Portal

A single 7 mm working portal is established on one side through the interlaminar window, providing access to the spinal canal.

03

Bilateral Decompression

Endoscopic drill and Kerrison rongeurs remove the hypertrophied ligamentum flavum and overhanging bone from both sides of the canal through the unilateral access. Bilateral neural decompression confirmed.

04

Foraminotomy

If foraminal stenosis is present, the medial facet and foraminal ligaments are resected to create a patent nerve exit canal. Both nerve roots confirmed free and decompressed.

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What to Expect

Operation time is 60–90 minutes per level. Most patients notice immediate relief of leg pain and heaviness. Walking is permitted within hours. Mild back soreness resolves within 1–2 weeks.

healing

Recovery

Discharge within 24 hours. Return to walking and light activities immediately. Desk work in 1 week; physical labour in 3–4 weeks. Long-term success rates for symptom relief exceed 80% at 5 years.

Risks & Considerations

warningDural tear with CSF leak (1–3%) — usually managed conservatively
warningIncomplete decompression requiring repeat procedure
warningPost-decompression instability if excessive bone is removed
warningRecurrent stenosis at same level (5–10% at 5 years)
warningEpidural haematoma — very rare, requires urgent drainage

Other Procedures

Discuss this procedure with Dr. Sparsh

Book a consultation to find out if you are a suitable candidate and understand the full process in detail.