Value

This is a microsurgical procedure which can be used to gently treat even severe constrictions of the vertebral canal with minimal risk of surgically-induced instability (vertebral slippage).

Advantage

This is a gentle procedure that usually requires only a brief inpatient stay. Through the mechanical expansion of the vertebral canal, immediate relief (decompression) of the spinal nerve is achieved. This usually leads to a quick reversal of pain and immobilization.

Follow-up

For circa four weeks following the operation, the patient wears a specially-formed and comfortable plastic corset. A specialized physiotherapy program should begin two to three weeks after the procedure. Special attention is given to isometric muscle-building, as well as posture and movement training (back-training school).

Ability to work

Office work and light physical activity are possible after approximately three weeks. Physically strenuous activity should be avoided for approximately six weeks, and then only gradually reintroduced.

Sports

Swimming is possible after circa three weeks; bicycling in an upright position after circa four weeks; jogging on soft ground after five weeks at the earliest. Other types of sport, depending upon their degree and type of intensity, can be gradually reintroduced after six weeks.

Results

In concordance with international publications, a success rate of 80 to 85 percent is to be expected.

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