From the Guidelines
Orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons are the specialties that typically treat spinal stenosis.
Treatment Overview
- The treatment of spinal stenosis often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, exercise, and pain management, as well as surgical interventions like decompression, spinal fusion, and laminectomy 1.
- The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the presence of neurological deficits, and the patient's overall health status.
Diagnostic Evaluation
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic modality for evaluating patients with suspected spinal stenosis, as it provides better visualization of soft tissue, vertebral marrow, and the spinal canal 1.
- Computed Tomography (CT) may also be used, especially if MRI is not available or contraindicated.
Surgical Interventions
- Decompression surgery is a common treatment option for spinal stenosis, which involves removing bone and tissue that are compressing the spinal cord or nerves 1.
- Spinal fusion may also be performed to stabilize the spine and prevent further compression.
- The choice of surgical procedure depends on the individual patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise.
From the Research
Specialty that Treats Spinal Stenosis
The specialty that treats spinal stenosis includes:
Treatment Options
Treatment options for spinal stenosis include:
- Non-operative management, such as activity modification, oral medications, and physical therapy 6
- Surgical treatment, including decompression, laminectomy, and fusion 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Minimally invasive surgery, such as endoscopic decompression and interspinous process spacer device (IPSD) 3, 5
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of spinal stenosis is typically made based on: