Spine Care : A Patient’s Journey
- Dr Vinayaraj Kelagadi
- Jun 17, 2024
- 2 min read
Spine Care - Understanding Lumbar Canal Stenosis and the Path to Relief: A Patient’s Journey
At Kossin Care, we are committed to delivering exceptional orthopedic care, focusing on comprehensive, patient-centric treatments. Today, I want to share the journey of a 53-year-old patient diagnosed with lumbar canal stenosis, a condition causing significant discomfort and impacting daily activities.
Diagnosis: Lumbar Canal Stenosis from L3-S1
Lumbar canal stenosis is a common condition, especially in older adults, where the spinal canal narrows, leading to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Our patient presented with stenosis spanning from L3 to S1, with pronounced root compressions at L4 and L5, more severe on the left side.
Images before Surgery
Symptoms: Pain and Mobility Challenges
The patient reported persistent pain radiating from the lower back to the left lower limb, significantly affecting their quality of life. The pain made walking and standing challenging, impeding daily activities and causing sleep disturbances. These symptoms are typical of lumbar canal stenosis, where nerve compression can lead to severe discomfort and mobility issues.
Cause: Degenerative Lumbar Spondylosis
Degenerative lumbar spondylosis, a form of arthritis in the spine, was identified as the underlying cause. This degenerative condition leads to the wear and tear of spinal discs and joints, contributing to the narrowing of the spinal canal and subsequent nerve compression.
Treatment: PLIF with Decompressive Laminectomy
Given the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's life, we recommended a surgical approach: Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) with decompressive laminectomy from L3 to L5. Here’s an overview of the procedure:
Images after surgery
Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)
PLIF involves removing the damaged disc between two vertebrae and inserting a bone graft in the space. This promotes fusion between the vertebrae, providing stability and alleviating pain caused by movement.
Decompressive Laminectomy
A decompressive laminectomy is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It involves removing the lamina (the back part of the vertebra covering the spinal canal) to widen the spinal canal and create more space for the nerves, reducing compression and alleviating pain.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Post-surgery, the patient undergoes a tailored rehabilitation program to ensure optimal recovery. This includes physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility, and support the spine during the healing process. Pain management is also crucial, and we provide comprehensive care to address any discomfort during recovery.
Outcomes and Patient Experience
Our patient experienced significant relief from pain post-surgery. The ability to walk and stand without severe discomfort marked a considerable improvement in their quality of life. Sleep disturbances were minimized, allowing for better rest and overall well-being.
A Path to Renewed Mobility
At Kossin Care, our goal is to provide targeted, effective treatments for conditions like lumbar canal stenosis. Through precise diagnosis, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive post-operative care, we strive to help our patients regain mobility and live pain-free lives.
If you or a loved one are experiencing similar symptoms, consult with our orthopedic specialists to explore the best treatment options tailored to your needs.
Dr. Vinayaraj Kossin Care
+91 988 605 3385 / +91 98860 53373 / kossincare.in@gmail.com
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