Our Summary

This research paper describes a new surgical technique for treating severe back problems like herniated disks and spinal stenosis. It’s called the biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression (BELD). Unlike current procedures that use one portal (or access point) for surgery, BELD uses two portals. This makes it easier for surgeons to see and maneuver their instruments during the operation.

The researchers tested this new procedure on 17 patients. They measured the patients’ pain and disability levels before and after the surgery. The results show that the patients’ pain and disability scores significantly improved after the operation.

One patient needed another surgery due to incomplete decompression, but overall, the researchers conclude that BELD is as effective as current surgical methods but with the added benefit of a smaller incision. This could potentially lead to less pain and faster recovery times for patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression (BELD) technique?
  2. How does the BELD technique compare to current surgical methods for treating severe back problems?
  3. What are the potential benefits of the BELD technique for patients with severe back problems?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing spinal decompression to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting, maintaining good posture, and participating in physical therapy as recommended. It’s important to give your body time to heal properly after surgery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended spinal decompression include those with conditions such as herniated disks, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and facet joint syndrome. These patients may be experiencing symptoms such as chronic back pain, leg pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities, weakness in the muscles, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time.

Spinal decompression is often recommended for patients who have not found relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. It may also be recommended for patients who have severe symptoms that are impacting their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

Overall, patients who are experiencing chronic back or leg pain, have a diagnosis of a spinal condition that can be treated with decompression, and have not found relief from other treatments may be good candidates for spinal decompression surgery. It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if spinal decompression is the right treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before spinal decompression:

  1. Patient experiences severe back pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan to determine the cause of the symptoms.
  3. Patient consults with a spine specialist to discuss treatment options, including non-surgical interventions like physical therapy or medications.
  4. If conservative treatments are not effective, patient may be recommended for spinal decompression surgery.

After spinal decompression:

  1. Patient undergoes the BELD procedure, which involves making two small incisions in the back to access and decompress the affected spinal nerves.
  2. Patient experiences relief from symptoms such as back pain and leg pain.
  3. Patient undergoes post-operative physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.
  4. Patient follows up with the surgeon for monitoring and evaluation of recovery progress.
  5. Patient may experience improved quality of life and functionality with reduced pain and increased mobility.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about spinal decompression using the biportal endoscopic lumbar decompression (BELD) technique include:

  1. What specific back problems or conditions can be treated with BELD?
  2. How does the BELD procedure differ from traditional spinal decompression surgeries?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with BELD?
  4. What is the success rate of BELD in treating back pain and disability?
  5. How long is the recovery period after undergoing BELD surgery?
  6. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities following BELD surgery?
  7. What type of post-operative care and physical therapy will be necessary after BELD surgery?
  8. How experienced is the surgical team in performing BELD procedures?
  9. Will there be any long-term effects or implications of undergoing BELD surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before deciding on BELD surgery?

Reference

Authors: Eun SS, Eum JH, Lee SH, Sabal LA. Journal: J Neurol Surg A Cent Eur Neurosurg. 2017 Jul;78(4):390-396. doi: 10.1055/s-0036-1592157. Epub 2016 Sep 21. PMID: 27652804