Why is this procedure done?
The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. These bones are lined up on top of each other. In between the bones there are discs. They have a spongy middle and act like shock absorbers. There are openings between the vertebrae. These are called foramen. Spinal nerves pass through these openings. Sometimes, bone, discs, scar tissue, or ligaments may put pressure on these nerves. Often, you may hear this called a pinched nerve. You may have pain, tingling, and numbness. ‚
Back surgery to ease signs of pressure on these nerves is a foraminotomy. The procedure opens up the foramen to make more room for the nerves. When a large amount of bone or other material is taken out, it is called a foraminectomy. ‚
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What will the results be?
After surgery, you should have less pain or other signs. You should be able to move more easily too. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- What time you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, you will be given a drug to make you sleepy. It will also help you stay pain free during the surgery. The staff will put an I.V. in your arm to give you fluids and drugs.
- Sometimes, the doctor will give you a special drug to make you numb for the surgery. Other times, you are completely asleep.
- This surgery can be done in one of two ways.
- Open surgery ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor will make a cut on your lower back along the spine. Your doctor will move the muscles apart to show the nerves and bones of your spine.
- Endoscopic surgery ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor will make few small cuts on your lower back. Your doctor will put small surgical tools into the holes to do the procedure.
- Your doctor will remove bone and tissue to make the openings where the nerves pass through larger.
- Your doctor will close your cut with stitches or staples and cover it with clean bandages.
- The length of the procedure is based on the type of surgery. It is often 1 to 2 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely. Your doctor may give you drugs for pain.
- Your doctor may give you a brace to wear to protect your spine.
- You may go home right after the surgery or you may need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days based on your condition.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Do weight-bearing and strengthening exercises as directed by your doctor or therapist.
- Keep a healthy weight. This can help prevent straining and pressure on your lower back.
- Practice good ways to lift things so that you do not hurt your spine. Part of your physical therapy will be to teach you the best ways to move and lift things.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain
- Fight an infection
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Damage to nerves or spinal cord
- Pain comes back
Where can I learn more?
American Association of Neurological Surgeons ‚
http://www.aans.org/Patient%20Information/Conditions%20and%20Treatments/Minimally%20Invasive%20Spine%20Surgery%20MIS.aspx ‚
North American Spine Society ‚
http://www.knowyourback.org/Pages/Treatments/SurgicalOptions/PosteriorCervicalForaminotomy.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚