Can Spinal Stenosis Be Repaired Arthroscopically?

Spinal stenosis is an abnormal narrowing of the spine that can put pressure on the spinal cord, leading to symptoms including pain, numbness and loss of bladder control. The condition is not repaired arthroscopically, but with a related procedure called laparoscopy.

The Facts

• According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, arthroscopy is a minimally-invasive procedure performed on injured joints, and uses special instruments and a miniature camera inserted in small incisions at the site of surgery. Laparoscopy uses this same basic technique, but is performed at other locations, including the abdomen and pelvis.

Additional Similarities

• Surgeons perform arthroscopy with the help of a small camera mounted on a tube called an arthroscope. Laparoscopy is performed with a functionally identical device called a laparoscope.

Laparoscopy and Spinal Stenosis

• The Mayo Clinic cites laparoscopy as an option in the treatment of spinal stenosis. The technique can be used to perform a decompressive laminectomy, which involves removing the back sections (lamina) of the spinal vertebrae.

Additional Uses

• In addition to a full laminectomy, surgeons may also use laparoscopy to perform a laminotomy, in which only part of the lamina are removed.

Considerations

• Back laparoscopy is an intricate procedure, and is not a viable option for all spinal stenosis patients.