Foraminal Stenosis Surgery

Foraminal Stenosis Surgery

Foraminal stenosis surgery usually does not become necessary unless debilitating chronic symptoms last longer than six months. Even then, a doctor will attempt to exhaust all conservative treatment options before recommending surgery. The foramina (singular: foramen) are openings on either side of the vertebrae that allow for the passage of the nerve roots that branch off the spinal cord. Traumatic injury or an age-related degenerative spine condition might reduce the space within the foramina. This narrowing is called stenosis. In turn, foraminal stenosis might lead to painful nerve compression.

Determining Where to Have Foraminal Stenosis Surgery

Should your doctor recommend decompression surgery to alleviate foraminal narrowing, make sure you conduct thorough research before deciding on a surgical center or a particular surgeon to perform the procedure. Use the following guidelines as a starting point for your research:

• Ask for a recommendation from your primary care physician.
• Ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Research doctors online at the websites for the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
• Don‘t be afraid to ask tough questions.
• Don‘t simply pick the first doctor you interview; seek a second opinion.
• Make sure you choose a doctor you‘re comfortable with and whose personality doesn‘t clash with yours.

The Minimally Invasive Alternative

As you research your foraminal stenosis surgery options, consider a consultation with Laser Spine Institute. Our orthopedic specialists treat nerve compression symptoms with minimally invasive, outpatient procedures performed using advanced, endoscopic technology. Contact a Laser Spine Institute consultation facility to learn more or for a complimentary review of an MRI or CT scan.