Lumbar spinal stenosis surgery
Surgeries/Neurosurgery/Lumbar spinal stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis surgery

Surgical decompression of nerves trapped in a narrowed spinal canal, to restore a comfortable walking distance.

What is it?

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a progressive narrowing of the spinal canal, most often related to the natural wear of the discs and vertebral joints. The nerves running through it become cramped, causing the characteristic symptom: pain, heaviness or tingling in the legs when walking, forcing the person to stop and then lean forward for relief. When walking difficulty becomes disabling despite medical treatment and rehabilitation, decompression surgery (laminectomy or canal widening) is offered. It consists of giving the nerves more space by removing the bony and ligamentous elements compressing them, under the operating microscope, while preserving the stability of the spine. The main objective is to regain a comfortable walking distance and better independence in daily life. Patients are mobilized early and resume walking within the first few days. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, this operation is performed by a neurosurgical team experienced in spine surgery, with personalized support during recovery, particularly for older patients.
Lumbar spinal stenosis surgery

When is it indicated?

Painful reduction in walking distance (neurogenic claudication)

Nerves cramped in the lower back cause pain and heaviness in the legs after a few steps, forcing the person to stop. Surgery gives them back the space they need to walk farther.

Leg pain or tingling relieved by leaning forward

Being relieved by leaning forward, for example while pushing a shopping cart, is highly characteristic of lumbar spinal stenosis and points toward this diagnosis.

Failure of medical treatment and rehabilitation

Surgery is only considered when medication, injections and rehabilitation no longer provide sufficient relief.

Significant narrowing confirmed by MRI or CT scan

Imaging precisely visualizes the narrowing of the canal and verifies that it truly explains the symptoms before the operation is offered.

Major impact on day-to-day independence

When shopping, going for a walk or simply moving around at home becomes difficult, the operation aims above all to restore independence.

Preparation

1Recent lumbar MRI or CT scan
2Pre-operative work-up adapted to age and anesthesia consultation
3Adjustment of ongoing treatments according to instructions
4Fasting for 6 hours before the operation

Procedure

1

General anesthesia

2

Incision in the lower back over the narrowed levels

3

Decompression of the nerves under the microscope by removing the compressive elements

4

Preservation of the stability of the spine

5

Careful closure

6

First mobilization the following day with the team's assistance

Duration

1 to 3 hours depending on the number of levels

Aftercare & Recovery

Walking is resumed quickly, with a gradual improvement in walking distance over the weeks. The hospital stay lasts a few days. Gentle rehabilitation and postural advice support the return to daily activities.

Risks and side effects

Temporary scar pain
Residual tingling that gradually subsides
Tear of the membrane surrounding the nerves, rare and repaired during the same operation if it occurs

These risks remain rare. Your surgeon will inform you in detail before the procedure.

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Contact us to schedule a consultation or receive a personalized quote.

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At a glance

Duration: 1 to 3 hours depending on the number of levels
Preparation: Required
Dedicated specialist team