Spinal Stenosis Decompression Vs. Fusion

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces in the spinal column that is either congenital or acquired. Stenosis can create immobility and nerve compression, eventually leading to damage and loss of function of the extremities controlled in that spinal area. Decompression and fusion are two methods of treatment for people suffering from stenosis.

Treatment Definitions

• Decompression is a method of treatment that pulls the spine back into alignment to counter the effects of gravity. A fusion is a surgical procedure that creates artificial stability in the joint by fusing one or more vertebrae together.

Decompression Modalities

• Over time the inter-vertebral discs can compress creating pressure on the spine. Chiropractic manipulation, traction and decompression machines help release the compression and reintroduce the space needed between each vertebrae.

Fusion Surgery

• For severe cases with extreme compression on nerves and lack of mobility, a surgeon will remove the disc and fuse the vertebrae together. They can either graft bone or place an artificial component in the area to prevent further compression and degeneration.

Recovery

• There is no recovery time for decompression and patients may have decompression procedures repeated over time to reduce stenosis pain. Spinal fusions require several days in the hospital followed by two to three months of recovery time, requiring more than six months to allow the fusion to properly bind to the bone.

Risks

• The risks of decompression include worsening the condition through improper manipulation or allowing the stenosis to continue to degenerate over time creating permanent damage. Fusion surgery has many risks including nerve injury, improper healing, infection and possible death.