Lumbar unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression in lumbar spinal stenosis

Abstract

Background: Multiple surgical approaches are existing for the management of lumbar canal stenosis.
Objective: This study was conducted to assess the outcomes of unilateral laminotomy with bilateral decompression in such cases.
Patients and methods: This prospective study was conducted at Mansoura University Hospitals, and we included a total of 12 cases with lumbar canal stenosis. All cases underwent unilateral laminotomy with bilateral canal decompression during the period between July 2017 and July 2018. Post-operative outcomes included ODI, and VAS score for both leg and back pain.
Results: The age of the cases ranged between 38 and 62 years. We included 7 males and 5 females. ODI, lower extremity, and back pain showed a significant decrease after the operation (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Unilateral laminotomy with bilateral canal decompression is a safe and feasible approach to managing LSS. Excellent outcomes are expected regarding leg pain and quality of life, while slight improvement is anticipated regarding low back pain.