constricted vertebral canal of the lumbar spine
Spinal canal stenosis refers to a constriction of the spinal canal, which the spinal cord and the nerve roots that come out from it run through. This kind of constriction of the spinal canal mostly occurs as a result of wear as the patient ages. These degenerative changes result in the intervertebral disc drying up (with the disc losing height) which causes excessive strain to the small vertebral joints. This causes a vertebral joint arthrosis and a constriction of the ligaments that run through the vertebral canal. All of this results in a slowly advancing constriction of the vertebral canal which compresses the nerves inside it. A constricted vertebral canal makes itself particularly felt through the radiation of pain that is triggered by walking or standing. Understandably, this results in a marked restriction in walking distances and a reduced quality of life.
If physiotherapy and pain-relief therapy cannot bring about any relief, an operational therapy is indicated. The constriction in the spinal canal is widened through a small incision. The compressed structures that cause this constriction are removed under the microscope. A mobility retention cushioning may also be inserted between the spinous processes (Figure 1). In a few cases, the segment must also be stiffened. As quality of life can be significantly improved by this relatively minor operation with few risks, this surgery is often carried out even in elderly patients.
Fig. 1: DIAM
herniated disc of the cervical spine
constricted vertebral canal of the cervical spine
herniated disc of the cervical spine