Lumbar Spinal Stenosis A Brief Review

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a frequently encountered degenerative spinal condition in the aging population. Less invasive operative decompressions have become popular in recent years, with retention of the stabilizing elements and a decrease in perioperative morbidity. Surgery plays a significant role in the successful treatment of this condition. However, there remains a significant role for nonoperative management as well. Furthermore, scientific evidence leads us to believe that outcomes are improved when spinal arthrodesis is performed after operative decompression in patients who have degenerative lumbar stenosis with spondylolisthesis or degenerative scoliosis. Pedicle screw fixation can provide segmental stability after laminectomy, improving the rate of fusion and avoiding the need to extend the instrumentation to adjacent levels with intact laminae. Finally, recognition of the appropriate operative candidate and the various treatment options available remain key in the successful treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis.