Part 3 - Surgical Treatments for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

This video outlines the surgical options that a patient might require to treat Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. I tell my patients that surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is a last resort and should only be considered if there is muscle weakness or if it is effecting your overall quality of life. The surgical procedures for lumbar spinal stenosis are great operations with terrific outcomes.
#thespineguy #lumbarspinalstenosis #spinesurgery #laminectomy #microdecompression
Dr. Brian W. Su, MD
Spine Surgeon
Chief Development and Strategy Officer | California Orthopedics and Spine
Medical Director of Spine Surgery | Marin General Hospital
Director | Marin Healthcare District Board
Chairman | Marin Specialty Surgery Center
Yelp:
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Contact two locations:
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415-927-5300
2 Bon Air Road, Suite 120
Larkspur, CA 94939
7100 Redwood Blvd, Suite 200
Novato, CA 94945
Curriculum Vitae:
www.caorthospi...
FTC: This video is not sponsored.
Disclaimer: This video is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Information obtained from this video should not be taken in lieu of your own medical provider's advice and treatment plan. Please consult directly with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any diagnosis or treatment plan options. Content provided on this KZbin channel is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The statements made about specific products throughout this video are not to diagnose , treat, cure or prevent disease.

[@jimhaugen6971]

I had the laminectomy procedure about 2 months ago. I was having severe pains in my left leg and foot, had trouble sleeping. All of the pain in my leg went away immediately and has not come back. The only pain I had was in the incision. I stopped pain meds within 4-5 days, have not taken any since. What a glorious feeling to be completely pain free! I am 80 years old.

[@chicagomike]

How much time for the recovery period. Are you bed ridden. After the operation.

[@ngahuiadixon8867]

Jim Haugen. Was your problem with lumbar spine stenosis resulting in your leg pain? I gave neuropathy because of degenerative disc in lumbar spine.

[@marcofrey2903]

That is wonderful. I pray my girlfriend of 38 feels the same way soon.

[@sierratrinidad1939]

Amazing!! I’m 23 and have stenosis on my l2 l3 and l4 l5 with weakness and severe sciatica unable to walk for over a month. I have an appointment with a neurosurgeon in 6 days and am mentally preparing myself for possible surgery. Your story made me feel so much better

[@jeremycheadle75]

awesome

[@Cmoredebris]

My neurosurgeon didn't explain any of this. He didn't order physical therapy, meds, or steroid shots, basically he said too bad, live with it. I can't sleep because of the pain and have great difficulty walking. Thanks for this video, now I understand there are options. Plus, I'm looking for a different doctor.

[@jl1399]

Call the spine guy now!

[@dawnwade5229]

Three weeks ago I had a laminectomy in L4-L5 and L5-S1 due to 60% stenosis. My pain is nothing now compared to what it was before!!! Amazing surgery that has changed my life.

[@elliegarcia9791]

Who was the Dr and where

[@davidebasinger2997]

Good for you Dawn! I have the same symptoms as you do and more likely to have surgery as well. Stay safe!!

[@MizzzJazzzyJazzz]

I wish i could get it done. This pain gets so bad some days i just wish God would take me. My pain management does not do this procedure yet. I no longer accept epidurals because they do nothing for me anymore. I just want out of this pain

[@elliegarcia9791]

Hey dawn where did you get surgery done and who was the doctor

[@georgiapeach5366]

@@MizzzJazzzyJazzz I totally understand..same here

[@karenkukurin5078]

You need to have your own TV show. You’re not only articulate, knowledgeable, and have a talent for simplifying complicated issues, you’re easy on the eyes. Get yourself an agent.

[@mwweldon]

I’ve been down this road. One intervention after another. The last being an ablation which did not work- the origin of the nerve pain was out of reach I was told. So now I go to the surgeon. I’m 73 and my quality of life is almost at a full stop while my pain level is 8 and 9. Increasing pain since 2007.

[@maureenjurmann1916]

Dr. Su, I really enjoy your videos. They are extremely well done and so informative. I am currently experiencing spinal stenosis of lumbar region with pain down right leg. I just received my first steroid injection and much of my pain is currently gone. I literally couldn't stand more than a few minutes or walk more than a block without needing to sit down. I don't know what the future will bring but, since I've been watching your videos, I am no longer fearful of a surgery. Thanks for sharing your expertise!

[@seeingeye5534]

I had almost exactly the same symptoms. Have had epidurals for 8 years. Not working as well now. Considering surgery

[@dorothypolley9905]

do

[@Catfcy]

That is great to hear. I am getting one in about 2 weeks. I hope I have as good a turnout as you. Hope you still doing well

[@alison6880]

I have the exact problem like yours have you tried surgery I will like to know more

[@anitalopresto]

Had epidural 10 years ago helped ,thinking of getting another one not ready for surgery!

[@jacklinallison4170]

Thank you for explaining this horrible pain, and what can be done to relieve it. You gave a very detailed explanation!

[@Tampo-tiger]

These specialists and surgeons are so incredibly skilled and confident,. You couldn't trust me to sweep a floor properly, yet these folk are operating on the most critically-important parts of the body as though they were changing a headlight bulb. It is nothing short of pure genius.

[@nildadel9795]

Not Alwyas ! My neighbor has the surgery at 36 and she is disable now . She went for simple surgery now she needs more surgeries . Her reproductive system is not connected to her brain . Probably they touch the nerve. Now she needs more surgeries

[@deirdregraziano5959]

Truly appreciate this clear full presentation which covers all possibilities/complications. Dr Su is a master educator which folks like me really appreciate so we can be fully informed

[@comfortarthur-zj4pb]

Hello everyone, I was a bit scared after my surgery with the pains i was feeling. My surgeon changed meds and increased few days to my stay in the States for the incision site to heal well and was ok to travel back to my country. My surgen also followed up with my specialist here in Ghana. I didn't need any meds again and started feeling really better almost after months. The surgery worked and it was like magical. Now back and very active than before. All my leg pains and its associated tingling and numbness, etc are gone. I sometimes even forget that i ever had such severe pains and sleepless nights. In fact the surgery was the best solution because i had tried all the possible treatments and didn't work until finally watching Dr. Su's video and made a decision for the surgey. Thank you Doc and wishing all those considering this surgery as treatment option, the best of luck. Sometimes, it may take a while but you will be better again. 😅

[@deanhunt7527]

how are you feeling now

[@stephentaylor8396]

Steve Taylor I had a decompression of 4 & 5 as an emergency at QMC in Nottingham 2 months ago. Now I'm back at work as a heating engineer but taking it very slowly. The pain in my legs befor my operation was unbelievable and some days I could not walk. A big thank you to all the team that was involved in my treatment.

[@alfiethepatterdaleterrier5595]

Im not far from you what was the surgeons name ?

[@46metube]

Nice.👍🏻

[@kkeegin]

Dear ,Doctor Su, I grew up in Mill Valley and Bolinas riding horses throughout my childhood and showing jumpers competitively as an adult. I am a graduate of UCSC with degrees in Economics and World Studies. I have a Master's from UCLA Anderson School of Business Management. I have worked in Advertising and Tech Sales before I started my own very successful company at the age of 42 years old. I finally had to close my company due to my back and hip problems Now living in Southern California, 20 years ago Doctors Lanman and Cooper performed a laminectomy for a herniated disc at L4/L5 that was completely obscuring my spinal canal At that time they told me I had a 50/50 chance of walking again or ending up in a wheel chair without control of my bladder and bowels. I walked out of the hospital.. I have had a successful riding career and chronic pain ever since. I was also told that time that I had degenerative bone disease. I am now completely disabled. I cannot walk or stand without assistance. I am on Medi-cal since I was self employed at the onset of my condition. Two years ago I noticed I was losing strength in just being able to carry my saddle to and from the tack room. Since I'm on Medi-cal here in Southern California, it has been an excruciatingly slow process just getting an MRI, which after completing a round of X-rays I am still waiting for an MRI appointment. The pain started in my hip. About a year and a half ago I noticed that I was having tremendous pain in my back and hip when trying to walk or stand. I needed to help support myself when trying to walk or stand. I have a torn rotator cuff in my left shoulder while my right hip is agonizingly painful. About six months ago I noticed that my back would just give out and could not walk or stand at all without holding on to something. My mom bought me a walker for Christmas but, I can barely use that now and am mostly bedridden. At times I am losing control of my bladder as well. After losing my ability to earn money, I lost my home to foreclosure. This threw a monkey wrench in my ability to see my PCP. However, my physician is only in the office 1 day per week as he services 4 other locations. However, I have been waiting for an appointment for an MRI for 2 months now. And I have to admit I have some fear and trepidation as I recently had a friend go in for back surgery at Henry Mayo Hospital in Santa Clarita and did not make it out alive after completing a successful surgery. I really need help before it's too late for me to ever walk again. Please let me know if you can help me or if you can refer me to another doctor in Southern California who would be willing to help me I would be eternally grateful. I just don't know where to turn and I'm getting really substandard care. Thank you for taking the time to read my plea for help. God bless you.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

You may want to try the doctors at USC or ucla.

[@eltoro6064]

Thank you for the video, very clear, and informative. I had spinal stenosis at the L4/L5 and doctor-advised surgery. After the surgery, I could not urinate normally. meaning I could not pee but had to use a catheter to drain out the urine. My left buttocks, thigh, and calf started hurting and feeling numb, sounds crazy but it just is. That was ten years ago. The urologist says my bladder, kidney, etc are just fine, but the bladder is not receiving messages from the brain to pee. My entire backside, cheeks, thighs down to my ankle are painful, I feel nothing at my genital area, eg when I shoot a stream of water at the region, it's like nothing is there, no sense of heat, water, nothing. I am still using catheters to this day. My advice to people with back problems, make surgery your very last option.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Surgery should always be the last option.

[@melissachatwin9673]

It makes me wonder why drs seem to want to make surgery the patients first or only option, no pain management, no physiotherapy, no suggestions of other options (idk what they'd b because the informations not given) just surgery as if a miracle cure.

[@nildadel9795]

My neighbor had same issue . She went for Microdecompression but her surgery left her in worse shape . She developed infection ( sepsis ) her suerte on didn’t listen to her when she said she had headaches so she ended up in ER . She need multiple surgeries now to fix the first surgery because they touched other nerve so her reproductive system is in the floor as it’s not receiving Sinaloa from brain . She doesn’t have control of peeing. 😢 Her advice was : look for a GOOD neurosurgeon. Do not let anyone to cut your back . She is only 36 years and her life change ti worse since surgery

[@dawnallen431]

Hello it’s early morning in PENNSYLVANIA thank you SOO much I’ve been up stressed about a RT L5/51 lumbar decompression surgery I’m having February 22-2023 an I was scared to death until I watch your video. Although my Neurosurgeon has explained everything to me about where she’s going , etc. it’s my first time it’s a work injury and I’m 54 mom of 9 laying here afraid. Again thank you and I’m sure to get some sleep and put my fears in check . God bless you and yours and your channel 🙏🏿🫂

[@dawnallen431]

Awesome results and GOD WAS THANKED IN ADVANCE. And now the healing. Went in said a few words and was on the table for 2 an a half hrs and , when I woke up it felt like a nap. Scared for absolutely nothing. I’m embarrassed to say but I was, and I’m also going to thank all who knew and prayed for me. And THANK YOU TO THE NEUROLOGIST DR. Ms. Lee Whang AT STLUKES BETHLEHEM PENNSYLVANIA GOD BLESS 🫂🙏🏿🙏🏿🫂😇🤗

[@robinbrown3290]

Wonderful to hear…😊

[@dawnallen431]

And after my surgery. I will tell you how it went , and be just as cheerful as everyone blessed here in the comments. Great recovery stories guys 👍 Keep on moving 😊

[@mikegarrett861]

59 and have 4 level Moderate to severe stenosis. Still golf and surf and off road dirt bike. Injections and oblations have helped but just a matter of time before i consider surgery. You will be my first choice for an evaluation after watching your video. Never met you but feel very confident you love what you do and truly care about the outcome of your patients.

[@patrickmercado5284]

I’d love to send Dr.S my MRI cd simply to get his interpretation on how he would attack my surgery. Living in Florida, a California visit is out of the question ! I couldn’t hack the plane ride ! Great video. I almost feel reassured to even consider my multi-level laminectomy.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

I can do a virtual consult with you. You can call California orthopedics and spine to make an appointment.

[@mnb3566]

Dr. Su - thank you so much for this series of videos on lumbar spinal stenosis. It has provided more information in a simple yet through manner than I have ever received. It will help me make a logical fact based decision on how to proceed with alleviating my back pain.

[@chengkhoo1171]

Excellent 3 part series on this topic. I had a procedure done less than a month ago to remove some of the bone spurs that caused the lumbar spinal stenosis. My surgeon injected needles into my spine and used radio waves to burn off the bone spurs to widen the spinal column. He then injected steroids into the spine. The whole procedure was only 30 mins. Following that the anaesthetist gave me an epidural injection. I was sent home an hour later. The procedure is neuroplasty and was painless and quick. The pain in my hips went away immediately. My surgeon said that I should recover fully within 4-6 weeks with physiotherapy. I do feel a lot better and only have a dull ache at my lower back and slight pinching from time to time. My physiotherapist also encourage me to swim 3km per week which I am trying to achieve.

[@ericegle]

How are you doing a year out, and where sis you have this procedure? Thanks!

[@timothyj1966]

WOW... you must live in the States? I doubt Canada has this procedure we are so behind Medically. I have severe back pain in 3 4 5 S1 57 and feel 90

[@chengkhoo1171]

I live in Penang, Malaysia where my procedure was done. It is a private hospital so I had to pay for it. The medical industry here has improved so much. We get lots of medical tourism especially from Indonesia. My back has improved significantly even though it is not completely without pain. My surgeon is happy with my progress. Cases like mine if not treated tend to deteriorate quickly but mine is stable. I swim almost every day. I have stopped regular physio and chiropractor sessions. I used to go 2x as week, then 1x a week and now only once a month.

[@michaelgoodwin7579]

Hi Brian. I have a lot to thank you for. You gave me the encouragement to have spinal decompression of L2/3 & L3/4. The op was a complete success. It was done 3 weeks ago and already I can walk and stand like I did 5 years ago. I owe you a million thanks for the good advice. My life is nearly back to normal. Thank you, Mike from the UK.

[@pennypink3759]

I have spinal stenosis I struggle everyday in paralysing pain. This year I will be having spinal stenosis surgery and I am greatful I can be helped. Blessings from UK.

[@amyaaron7141]

Thank you Doctor. A true genius and you pretty much saved me from being pressured into surgery for spinal stenosis from L4L5 Spondylolisthesis. I can at least wait a while. Your explanations are golden. Thank you again!

[@tinalangley774]

Thank you so much for this series! I am in the very early stages and this have me a lot of hope into something that feels very scary to me!

[@barbarashock529]

This was the best information I have seen and I have looked at a lot.

[@alastairbarkley6572]

Thank you for that, Dr Su. I'm scheduled for multi-level decompression in a couple of weeks (in London, England). Not looking forward to it but my symptoms are so disabling now that any improvement will be a big win. Your video gave me considerable peace of mind re the operation.

[@stevedouglas6998]

@alastairbarkley6572 . How was the surgery and has it helped? Can I ask where you had the surgery done? Thanks Steph

[@alastairbarkley6572]

@@stevedouglas6998 Hi Steve. In summary, I'm very pleased with the outcome. I had lumbar spinal decompression at two levels (L1/2 and L3/4) done on 3rd October. I'm now completely free of the disabling neurogenic claudication that I really wanted fixing. I was warned that the op wouldn't fix my 'back problems' generally - I'm 68 yrs and had quite a bit of degenerative osteoarthritis and disappearance of all my lumbar disks on MRI - but, those symptoms of stiffness on standing up, general aches and pains actually turned out improved as well. Result! I let spinal stenosis get worse and worse over about 8 years before I actually sought out the diagnosis. Bit embarrassing, I was an NHS doctor and hospital consultant specialist all my working life, but really 'the wrong kind of doctor' to be advising myself about my health! Once I sought help like everybody else does, everything worked like clockwork. As a result of the 8 year gap, I find that I had learned all sorts of 'coping' strategies to minimise walking, avoid prolonged standing, showers never baths, no driving for more than about 30 mins, no prolonged sitting (so no meals out, cinema etc) which pretty much dominated my life. I'm having to UNLEARN all those unhelpful behaviours which is sometimes frustrating (I'm constantly nagged about standing up straight now - which I can do now - rather than that hunched, bent forward, back and knees posture which was my default) and to learn new activities like enjoying walking unimpeded around my part of London just seeing what's changed before I became largely housebound - which is pure delight. Because of my age, blood pressure, atrial fibrillation heart rythm disorder thing etc, I wasn't done as a day case but was kept in for 48hrs only. I didn't have much/any post-op pain whilst I was in hospital but, stupid me, I waved away the Tramadol and Valium muscle relaxant meds offered on discharge - only to have to send the wife back on bended knees to the hospital to get some after I experienced the most severe muscle spasm cramps in the lower back, the like of which I hadn't imagined possible. These lasted a matter of a couple of days only. I also had my surgical wound suddenly plop open on about Day 7 with lots of pink serum-like fluid everywhere. I'd had my vacuum drain removed on Day 2. It needed to be re-stitched but, I used to do many of these type of incisions/closures in my own surgical practice so I know wound failures like this are more bad luck than poor surgical technique. Aside from these minor problems, everything went very well. Post op, you will need advice on exercise - just walking was advised to me - and on muscle strengthening and stretching (in spinal stenosis those mighty strong vertebral and paravertebral muscles just wither away to practically nothing). There was nothing complicated here and I was able to work with a personal trainer rather than committing to multiple sessions with a physiotherapist. I was told I wouldn't see the benefit of the op for 6 weeks - that was only partly true, I continue to see the benefits (well, gifts really) even now several months later. I got my diagnosis, initial (non-surgical) spinal stenosis treatment, pain medication, blood work and MRI done on our BRILLIANT NHS and felt very well cared for. I'm a big supporter (worked NHS for 40 years) but, I opted to have the op done privately (I've had private health insurance for about 25 years but never actually used it). I guess I got the op done quicker and the hospital food was almost certainly better but, apart from that I think there's no advantage in going private. I don't know how much the op cost but, I'd guess around £10k to £15k {*} so I was glad not to pick up the tab. I had the procedure at London Bridge Hospital which is owned/run by the American provider HCA. I felt very well cared for there. My op was done by complex spinal neurosurgeon (yes, really, that's what they call themselves) Mr Jonathan Bull, whose NHS practice is at St Bartholomew's Hospital (Bart's Healthcare NHS Trust). He's a no-nonsense kind of guy who just gets on with the job without fuss. Am I glad I had the op? You bet! Definitely the right choice for me. I hope this very long reply may say a few helpful things. I also hope your own quest for relief from spinal disorder goes well. If Dr Su happens to read this, many thanks for your helpful education pre-op which certainly encouraged me to get the op done. {*} Yes, really. American generally don't believe how cheap healthcare (and that's best quality healthcare) is in Europe, compared to the US.

[@sevebolton8732]

I’ve had this last week got 3 small bones removed was up on my feet the next day and got home, so far I can straighten my leg and walk more than 5 minutes, which I couldn’t do last week!!

[@lyndabrowning7516]

I am a person with lower lumbar spinal stenosis as well as having degenerative scoliosis. I experience pain that immobilizes me. I have had injections to relieve my pain but the relief time is very short. I hesitate to have the surgery because I was told the success rate was not great. It took me two years of seeking assessment to discover what was causing the numbness in my legs. I cannot walk far or stand at attention for long. I have pain that forces me to recline in the prone position to get relief. I have no pain when I sleep at night. I am very limited in doing regular tasks like preparing meals, house cleaning, grocery shopping etc. I now use a walker to get around. I long to be able to live pain free. I cannot take medication for the pain because of its interference with other medication that I take. ie Xarelto. Your explanation was very much appreciated. I now understand the surgery procedures better. I wish you were here in Canada. I could never afford to get this surgery in the USA. Thank you for alleviating my fear and replacing it with greater knowledge and confidence. Your teaching skills are very evident in this presentation. Thank you.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

The surgeons in Canada are terrific. It sounds like you should get a surgical opinion.

[@timothyj1966]

I have 3 4 5 S1 and 57 and feel 90... Live in Canada here too- nobody will touch me... Epidurals every 2 months and Opiods.... Life Sucks!

[@elvaquitlong5710]

This is the best doctor I've heard. Reassuring

[@KerryAll]

Thanks for explaining the procedure so well. I stumbled across this video two days ago and it just happened that the back surgeon phoned me this morning, looks like I have to get the 3 piece surgery but he thinks it's still day surgery. I understood all his explanations so well, because of your video. Fingers crossed I get the surgery in the next 4 months,

[@cuyoung1568]

Charlene here good morning to everyone, I hope today finds everyone in less pain than yesterday, or no pain at all!… it appears I’m ready to make an appointment for my 3rd epidural… will be discussing other options.. just listened to Dr. video about surgery options etc.. I’ll keep in touch😀.. many blessings to all moving forward ♥️

[@sharpser2544]

Sir Doctor's. Huge Thank You. What You do for people. Do it the BEST. I always have huge Respect to this Profession and professional Doctors. Love You! You are One of the best people on this Planet.

[@ChristianTravelers]

Yes, we would like you to go further on spinal fusion. Ray had a spinal fusion in 2007 and after about 6 months the severe back was gone. "Best thing I ever did!" Would like to understand the operation as it was very long and apparently, based on the surgeon's explanation, Ray was turned on a special table during the procedure to insert hardware. There are scars on his front and back to verify that this had happened in some way. In the following 14 years, the pain has never returned.

[@renee6863]

I’m praying that my surgery will accomplish the same for me!

[@ChristianTravelers]

@@renee6863 you're on our list also

[@billsandefur2890]

I had a laminectomy 5 days ago. I want to thank Dr. Su for the best and clearest explanation of the surgery. (I watched dozens of videos.) I also had a dural tear which was no fun. I’m now 5 days postoperative and still in pain but getting better each day. I no longer have my sciatica! Thanks for the info doc!

[@kimveazey9036]

I have severe spinal stenosis in all 3 spinal regions. I am hesitant to have surgery because the surgeon spent less than 5 minutes with me. He looked at my chart and said yes I can do surgery and handed the assistant my chart, then walked out. Thank you for making this understandable.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

It sounds like you need to see another surgeon.

[@dougyoung221]

@@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy you got that right. I'm getting a laminectomy in 4 weeks and am feeling confident due to a good connection with surgeon and his positive outlook. You need to believe in your doctor as the mind isn't separate from the body. You're a good guy and I see how much you interact with the commenters. 😘

[@delainevillarini3931]

Same thing happened to me and I'm reluctant to let do surgery

[@jamesbranham2217]

Some doctors don't have a bedside manor that doesn't mean they are bad.. but it's better when you connect

[@nildadel9795]

My neurosurgeon came late . Then he spend 3 minutes with me. I had too keep asking question while he was walking out from the office and told me …my assistant will give you details😢

[@TanyaRed]

Thank you for your teachings. You really breakdown things for me to understand as a lay person. 🙏

[@arthurcarvajal4102]

Thanks so much for the information. I just had my 4th epidural injection last Tuesday. 1st one lasted 3 years, 2nd lasted 2 years, 3rd lasted a year. And my Dr. for the first time mentioned the possibility of surgery in the future. So once again, thanks for all the information.

[@sylviamartinez5242]

Because basically it still keeps growing right the bone if you don’t get it removed the problem still there isolates it or what

[@dcaldwell97]

Wow...thank you. I have been dealing with this for a couple of years now...much worse in the last 6 months. I was not wanting to do surgery due to fear. Thank you for breaking it down so I could understand what is really going to happen.. thinking the surgery will be in my near future. I appreciate your detail in explaining it all.

[@javieron8982]

Hello Dr. Su, greetings from across the pond (Luxembourg). I am so glad I came up to your channel after doing a very thorough research regarding surgical procedures and other methods to alleviate the spinal stenosis condition. You explain extremely clearly everything about it and I am very grateful to know understand what is that I am expecting to happen when I go into the surgery room in a few weeks. Being 70 years old, I must be honest and tell you that I am very scared about the operation, treatment and recovery. I have always been very active and love jogging, cycling and trekking. I am not sure if I will be able to do all a that again. Fear and depression are continuously in my mind…. Thanks again for your great teachings.

[@catholiclife9304]

God bless you Dr...we are at our wits end with this .....

[@rick-6920]

Very well explained. I live in Canada with c-ray, CT scan and MRI in hand am waiting to discuss my prognosis with him/her..not fun right now...I hope our surgeons are cognizant of micro surgery techniques if i'm a candidate....thanks for taking the time to explain.

[@MrSevam]

An outstanding and easily understood presentation. Essential viewing for back pain sufferers .

[@bobheide]

Wonderful to see this. Thank you so much for your information & guidance!

[@carolsmith7403]

Thank you for this clear explanation of the procedure. I have decided to go ahead with the spinal decompression after 1.5 years of pain and inability to walk more than a few meters without my back and legs being affected. I am hoping for the best possible outcome to get some quality of life back. Thank you once again. 😊

[@reginalanders1689]

I have lumbar spinal stenosis diagnosed 3 yrs ago-wedge fracture at L 4 and compression fracture at L 2 in 2019. L 2 fracture was caused by osteoporosis- which is being treated now with once weekly dose of Fosamax.Early October- woke in severe pain in my lower back and my legs hurt as well. I went to the ER - had a nightmarish CT scan of thoracic and lumbar spine which revealed a small compression fracture at T 12. My pain and mobility has been slowly getting better - especially after I had an epidural injection at my pain specialist office last week. This recent fracture is caused by osteoporosis again.

[@mariadelcarmenchavez5332]

I have spinal stenosis L3 L4 y L5 S1 S2 since 8 years but I rejected the surgery because it scared me however over the years I’ve done a lot stretching exercises and I have felt better because the pain go away thank y for your excellent information

[@JAR2.0]

An excellent summary of the surgical procedures available for LSpine stenosis .

[@deborahdesanto2313]

A very nice explanation, easy to understand.

[@patriciap.9034]

Hi Dr. Su, I just found your website and I am glad I did, because I just had the MILD procedure done two days ago by my pain management doctor. The four aminal epidural’s stopped working over six months ago and so I decided to have this done. I was also told that I can have a spacer put in, or a second mild procedure done. My stenosis was only between L4 and L5 vertebrae. I am 76 years old and I would appreciate your opinion if you have the time. I worry about the spacer because I have multiple allergies and so I do not know what type of material spacers are made of and if there are more than one type. I also have to get a reverse shoulder replacement on my dominant right arm, come January. I am so happy I have found your channel without even looking, L O L. Thank you again for being who you are, and looking to help people out there like me.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

You can make a virtual appointment with me by calling California orthopedics and spine

[@rogerdane3253]

Doubt the Doc reads these but THANK YOU for the effort to communicate so much of what can be 'too complex' for many. I have a health care background in orthopedics and never thought I would need anything 'back' related but a sever accident changed all that... a life long commitment to training has helped but now I have lumbar stenosis at each level of the Lumbar vert. Including Lig Flav hypertrophy... WONDER if there is a video on reduction of the L.V. here at the site? Did not see one but that is my 'minimally invasive' procedure of choice. Thanks again for the wonderful elucidation of the spine.

[@nenabowser2020]

I am getting my surgery on 11/9, thanks for giving me a peice of mind and the comments helps me with my anxiety.

[@dejesusvandever1198]

Thank you doctor Su . Well clear explain. Many Blessing . All videos are great .🇨🇷🇺🇸💕👍

[@karenhenry3778]

I an an laminectomy about 20 years a go. Best thing i ever done. No pain😊😊

[@canhummawidsolidwaraynon8720]

Sounds so promising , 🥺😊🙏 I want to have that kind of operation .. I pray God that I can find a great doctor here in Philippines that can do that.

[@americanpancakelive]

Thank you so much- this is a more vivid explanation than what my spine doctor told me although he did a good job of explaining.

[@ToniStiger]

Wish someone would help me! 😢😢 Us bigger humans just suffer 😭😭😭

[@GWMotley1]

Than you for all the information you have posted on spinal conditions. I believe I am headed towards surgery in the foreseeable future and appreciate all the expert opinions.

[@williamlopus8369]

I had the Laminectomy surgery L4,L5,S1. I had been suffering for about 7 months with butt and leg pain to the point where I couldn’t walk more than 30-40 steps without resting. The pain was eliminated almost immediately except for the area of incision. I am almost 4 weeks out now and getting my strength back. Still no bending, lifting or twisting. Started to drive after 1 week. Looking forward to a full recovery.

[@ismailnarwade9244]

Thank very much for detail explanation I hd this trouble for last 7 yrs I could not walk more than 500 mtr and stand for only 2 mts 10 days I hd l3 to l5 laminoctomy sugry in sancheti hospital pune and feeling much brter still hv slight pain in thigh and rt leg my almost all pain gone thank u dr hadgaokar shailesh

[@eastbear2]

Thank you, Dr. Su for this very clear and helpful video.

[@bradbreitkreuz7624]

Excellent videos. I had a lamenectomy at L2, L3, L4, and.L5 and a disectomy at L2, L3. My symptoms prior to surgery were numbness in both legs from the hips to the feet along with sharp stabbing pain mainly in the feet. I also had lower back pain and upper buttock pain, along with pelvic pain. I was also having bowel issues. My MRI showed significant bilateral foraminal stenosis from L2 to L5 along with severe spinal stenosis L2-L3. My surgery lasted about 3 hour's, and was supposed to be minally invasive spine surgery. The 3 are 4 small incisions turn out to be one long 4 1/2 incision. My doctor assured me that he used minally invasive techniques due to the complexity of my surgery; it made more sense for one long incision. Post surgery, one day in the hospital, and sent home on pain meds. After the first week, I was able to get off the pain meds. The numbness in my legs continued to improve. The buttocks, bowels, and pelvic issues are also getting better. The lower back pain is slowly getting better, but I also have arthritis in my spine. Is it normal for the back pain to take longer to get better?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

They can take a year for back pain to get better. Surgery in general is not for back pain.

[@bradbreitkreuz7624]

Thanks for getting back to me. I'm 67 and tried PT and a series of 3 spinal injections over a year. Seeing that the injections were bringing relief, but only lasting a few weeks, my neurosurgeon recommended surgery. I was totally against surgery, but my symptoms had gotten to the point where I could only stand a few minutes and walk a few feet before having to sit or laid down. Now, I am walking 2 miles a day and hope to be able to start more rigorous PT again. I am 9 weeks post surgery.

[@floridian080]

Lucid discussion that is very helpful to someone reviewing options for spinal stenosis.

[@AndreaEllis-vr3kn]

Thank You Dr. Su. You Have given me a lot More Peace. I've been Suffering for Over a Decade now. I'm trying to get insurance so I can Finally get the Care I need. Now for me I Already know I'm going to have Scarring tissues & Most likely the more Major surgery. But if I can Remove Half if My Pains,😁😁😁 I'll be So much Happier. I Suffer Sever pains that's so much worse than before. The Squeezing pains have started now for a month or so. But off & on for a while. Just now I Cannot Go on with out help. I've been Really Scared. For reasons Im not going to share.But I'm going to Make sure I have an Amazing Dr. Prayerfully one as good as you are. At least close. Thank You for Taking Time to Give us More Info in an Honest,yet caring way. Wish there was More like you here in Tulsa. Anywhere Honestly.... You're More Rare than you know. God Bless You Always & your Loved ones too Thanks to u I know what I'm up against & Have more peace about it

[@chicagomike]

Great teacher. Thank you. God bless you.

[@teelakovacs208]

Thank you for your frank discussion on these procedures. I would love your opinion on my situation. I have had arthritis, ddd, stenosis and R leg sciatica most recently (onset 11 months ago now) I had avoided surgery twice before- first in my late twenties and then again in my mid-thirties, but I could no longer walk, sit or lie down without unrelenting pain for 91 days. I spent 3 days in the hospital after an invasive 3+ hour procedure of laminectomy and discectomy. This relieved some of the R affected pain from my lower thigh to foot. Now 11 months later I have three new pain spots created by the surgery- mid back above site, lower lumbar area and lowest sacrum area in addition to my old constant lumbar back pain. I had been told originally that healing was found within 3 months. My most troubling areas are L3- S2. Over the past 17 years I have used every modality including, PT, occupational, hydrotherapy, exercise, nerve stim, ablations, steroid injections. No relief. I had to resign my position as an educator of twenty years this June, (three months ago). Can you think of anything else I can try? I have now tried low level ketamine treatments and have been recommended higher level ketamine pain treatments at a different center, the cost may be even higher than the low level treatments of the last three months. I just want to get my life back. Is eleven months still within a window of time for reseanable healing? I am a 44 year old mother and educator and my hope is dwindling for a less painful life in the future. I am terrified that I may never be able to teach again or even find a suitable job due to the amount of movement and sitting positions my life now requires. I would appreciate any advice or recommendations you might have. Will I need to undergo more surgeries to regain the strength and flexibility I once had? Thank you!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Sounds like you need to talk to a spine surgeon

[@jminsandiego]

Another very informative video! Thank you so much. I would like to see a video on severe canal stenosis with compression on the cauda equina, anterolisthesis L4/L5.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Look at the video series degen spondylolisthesis

[@PamelaBrandonChromeFoto]

Wonderful explanation very informative on risk and outcome of spinal surgeries.😊

[@sfoexj]

Terrific video. I'm scheduled for a lumbar fusion in August and even though this video is not about lumbar fusion, I learned a lot about surgical options for spinal stenosis. Thank You!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Watch the videos on Lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis

[@sfoexj]

@@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy I did watch this video last night. I'm quite scared and will watch this video again and again. I am in communication with my spine surgeon. Thank you for breaking this down in language I can sort of understand.

[@coreypatrick7230]

My mom just turned 82 last week. She’s been suffering with spinal stenosis for about ten years. She has taken every non invasive route such as PT, libations, etc for years now and eats tramadol, Nuerotin , and other otc’s like candy with no pain relief. She also suffers from severe arthritis. Her mobility is terrible now to the point where I’m afraid to leave her alone at home due to weakness in her legs. I moved in so she would not be alone and she now uses canes, portable walkers, bedside potty chairs and I bring a wheelchair or all assistive devices everywhere we go. I’m terrified of a fall! Her orthopedic surgeon, neurologist, and rheumatoid arthritis specialist all recommended laminectomy/spinal fusion surgery however she’s still hesitant about having rods/screws placed in her back and the recovery time it takes and/ or relapse at her age. She has developed some mild dementia I’ve noticed, which was addressed by her primary care physician a few months back. Also, she’s having to now wear diapers for incontinence. Classic signs of severe spinal stenosis I believe. My fear is that she has waited too long for this type of surgery and the neurological damage has gone too far. Sorry for the long rant, but I was wondering: 1. What’s the data shown on having laminectomy /fusion related surgery in the elderly population? 2. Does spinal stenosis eventually affect the brain in any way ? 3. Can you recommend ways to uplift a person suffering from spinal stenosis. Mental health wise. And caregivers

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

It is less about chronological age but more about physiological. Healthy patients who are older do quite fine with surgery.

[@coreypatrick7230]

Thanks dr su

[@coreypatrick7230]

Is it possible to get a referral to your practice sir from a different state ? Located in Alabama

[@ianmatts3030]

I had a bilateral discectomy, laminectomy and foramenotomy (not sure if ive spelt that wrong) and the surgeon never told me what he did, the physio 4 weeks later told me what he did but couldnt explain it clear enough for me so this video has helped me understand a lot! Was L4L5S1

[@swamper2fly]

Looking forward to your presentation on multi level fusion. Had L1-5 done last November. Had great outcome but still some weakness in left leg. Seems to be getting better but slowly. Had a couple zoom meetings with my surgeon but not much in what really happened in there. Thank you for your great presentations.

[@diwilliams2877]

Thank you Dr for such an informative video as usual. I wish I had such a good doctor here in the 🇬🇧 God bless ❤️

[@carolxu3330]

Thank you for the very educational videos, I have better understanding about my situation now because I am experiencing sciatic pain on my L leg from lumbar stenosis.

[@timothyj1966]

Excellent Video... I have these same 3 areas. Sadly, In Canada here I bet we won't have this Procedure available for SEVERAL years we are sooooo Behind with Technology and Specialists.

[@arizbrad]

Thank you Dr. Su for explaining this. You have put me at ease for this possible surgery.

[@TheTanelChannel]

My moms about to have a surgery for Spinal Stenosis, shes over 60 and I really fear for her.. she has pretty severe back pain for past few years. Everybody always telling horror stories about back surgeries.. once you get it done its all downhill, you get paralized etc..

[@victorbarbieri7686]

Excellent, most helpful. Thank you.

[@janiceholliday8399]

My husband has had two back surgeries, and still in pain he's getting to the point he can hardly walk.We plan on getting another doctor's opinion. He had another epidural a couple months ago, which hasn't helped his pain. That doctor told him they didn't get to deep in 79 and 80 year olds, Gonna check this out for sure.

[@lauralonati7048]

Thank you for this information! I am considering surgery. I have severe lumbar spinal stenosis and in a lot of pain for 20 years. I can’t take the pain anymore! I either do the injections or the fuse. Just met the surgeon today. Gotta make up my mind! Scary!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Most cases do not require a fusion

[@susanbyrd-harvey7877]

Wow Thanks for taking away the mystery. I’m looking at surgery on L2-L5.

[@Andrew-wx3wd]

I have mild to moderate spinal stenosis but it gets worse when I sit down. It’s day 8 after injection for myself and pain still present. I’m thinking micro decompression as the next option for me. Thanks for the info

[@missd369]

Did your pain diminish at all? It took till my 3rd injection when they did both areas at the same time that I got about a 75% improvement.

[@GillianWong]

Dr. Su, thank you for these videos. This one in particular was extremely informative. I was wondering if you might consider doing a piece on XLIF surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis. What risks does the procedure carry, how effective is it, what types of situations would it be best used for, and what would it be unsuited to, that sort of thing. Just a thought!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

The lateral lumbar fusion video will be coming up. I just published the degenerative spondylolisthesis video and the lateral lumbar fusion video will come as part of surgical treatment

[@hugsstar2377]

Hi I just found you on here and you really explain and help people. I had the "mild" procedure a week ago and I'm in so much pain, hearing some people getting relief and I feel alone, no where tonight do I see someone saying they didn't feel better for a week or month, just want to know the pain from the procedure will get better. Please tell me I'm not alone~!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

The mild procedure is one that may be helpful but for my standpoint I may not provide enough decompression. You should consider getting an updated MRI to look at the decompression

[@eleanorsky1]

Thank you, very helpful for understanding the surgery.

[@gimbalair]

Really helpful. I have just had a percutaneous disectomy (July 2024) sadly made no difference. L4/L5, L5/S1 bi lateral. Next up decompression by taking bone away.

[@davestuart6593]

Thank you for these videos and the education I’ve received

[@mikeespo7728]

Great video...wish you were on the east coast

[@4runner1019]

Great explanation for spine surgery.Wish DR SU was in the New Jersey area

[@tagqasim4668]

Thank u so much Dr.Su for sharing ur science and knowledge, it's so much appreciated! I wish u were my doctor, I don't live in California or I would have come and seen u for sure. I just want out of this monstrous endless pain! Best!!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

You can always make an appointment with me at California orthopedics and spine virtually

[@mcdougal0]

SECOND TIME i'VE WATCHED THIS VIDEO SO GOOD THANKS AGAIN.

[@user-xh9df4sg1n]

Hello Dr. Su. I suffer from thoracic rediculopathy with radiating pain to the right scapula. Could you do a video on thoracic spine problems and how you deal with them surgically?

[@uzisasson9088]

Dr. Su, very informative and very well-done video. About 5 to 7 years ago I already had a minimally invasive surgery in order to repair remove pressure from the nerve (Levels 4 and 5). Recently the pain came back and now my question is: Can one have multiple minimally invasive surgeries? While I don't expect an answer since each case is different, it would be great if in one of your videos you can discuss that. Many thanks in advance!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Yes you can have multiple minimally invasive surgeries

[@jasdhaliwal336]

I am would like to know also yes, can one have multiple minimally invasive surgery on more than one level.

[@wendyadams2793]

Your videos so informative - I am in Houston area and called your office in CA for a recommendation for a neurosurgeon in my area. Never heard back which I realize your office a busy place . Having laminectomy this Tuesday and you unlike most surgeons explained the procedure in layman’s terms - thank you - I am praying this helps my painful sciatica

[@mlcarey1000]

Thank you! You've provided the exact information I needed to address and communicate with my physiatrist. Discussion is now around going to Stanford for RFAs.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Watch lumbar facet syndrome to understand rfa

[@Tampo-tiger]

I was sat here busy painting and not watching the screen, thinking "Oh no, it was just a scammy advert and not a surgical video at all", but then I looked at the screen and saw it was indeed a scammy quack commercial, so I skipped to the proper video, a world of difference! The proper video is excellent, so thank you very much!

[@norafabery1323]

I I would like you to do a video on a case of lateral recess stenosis and bilateral neural foramen stenosis due to a large synovial cyst projecting into the spinal canal. I love your videos and the way you explain all process. It makes me have a better understanding of some of the issues I'm going through and makes me feel more confident. Thank you very much. ❤️🤗

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

I can certainly make one on synovial facet cysts. They can often be aspirated or resected without fusion. As a disclaimer you should consult your spine surgeon.

[@jaja4438]

The doctor that did mine didn't explain anything to me. He acted as if he was GOD and didn't want to answer my questions when asked. Now I know what he did; again thanks for your excellent explanation!

[@suexyong1742]

I have Lumbar Scoliosis, severe Stenosis, Arthritis and DDD in my back. Would this surgery be for my type of condition that I have and would I be a great candidate for surgery or not?

[@bonnieketterman6542]

This was very informative I learned alot from this video

[@leilaskye8143]

I am suffering big time with numbness and severe pain. Still waiting for a operation. Life is unbeatable at the moment and loss if movement.

[@GM-cf6jv]

I am 70 now and butt and back leg pain is getting alot worse on both sides. I still can hike miles of trail and climb peaks but mornings are difficult. MRI’s over the years show progressive central and bilateral stenosis compressing L-3 and L-4 nerves and cauda equina. The L4-5 disk herniated 33 years ago. Surgeons recommend bilateral 2 level laminotomies. After 10 right side transforaminal steroid injections over 9 years half in each level I continue to resist surgery because of several people I have met who had spine surgery of this type. Problems with drop foot, and repeat surgeries and ultimate fusion are types of comments and I do not trust the 90% do well figure. I think alot of problems go unreported. I do not trust spine surgeons to give realistic outcomes especially in older age groups. One surgeon told me it takes 14 months for nerve regeneration. Visit enough surgeons and they will always tell you what they will do but not how you will be afterwards in realistic terms. Spine surgeons make their living doing surgery and filling the surgery schedule so would you tell the whole truth if your income depended on it? Coach Kerr of the Golden State Warriors had a dural tear after a microdiscectomy that laid him up for months. Tiger Woods has had 5 spine surgeries after herniation, bone fragments, fusion and herniation of new disc above fused. I am a skeptic but may have a 2 level bilateral laminotomy operation one day, but I hold out for better techniques. Still I appreciate the video.

[@joetqm]

Very good, thank you Dr. Su