Segmental Decompression Versus Wide Decompression With Fixation for Degenerative Lumbar Canal Stenosis

Overview

The purpose of this study is to compare two different surgical techniques for treating degenerative lumbar canal stenosis, a condition where the lower spinal canal narrows and puts pressure on the spinal nerves. For patients who continue to experience significant back and leg pain after at least three months of non-surgical treatments, surgery is often recommended to relieve the pressure. Currently, there is an ongoing debate among spine surgeons regarding the most effective surgical approach. This study will evaluate and compare the outcomes of two established methods: 1. Segmental Decompression Alone: A procedure focused purely on removing the bone and tissue that is pressing on the spinal nerves. 2. Wide Decompression with Fixation: A more extensive removal of compressive structures, combined with adding spinal hardware (pedicle screws and rods) to stabilize the spine. Researchers will observe 56 patients over an 18-month period. The primary goal is to determine if one technique offers better functional recovery and pain relief than the other. Researchers will measure success by tracking changes in patients' daily physical function (using the Oswestry Disability Index), reductions in lower back and leg pain, improvements in walking distance, and the time it takes to perform the surgery. Eligible participants are adult males and females over the age of 40 with symptomatic multilevel stenosis, provided their dynamic x-rays do not show existing spinal instability.

Lumbar spinal canal stenosis secondary to degenerative disease is a common condition associated with the aging process that may ultimately lead to the compression of neural elements within the lumbar canal. The degenerative process is often a response to hypermobility and can contribute to spinal instability. While conservative treatment is generally regarded as the first-line approach, surgical decompression is indicated for symptom alleviation in patients whose symptoms persist despite adequate nonoperative management. The primary objective of surgery for lumbar stenosis is the relief of neurogenic claudication, followed by an improvement in walking capacity and a reduction of leg pain. Over the past two decades, spinal surgeons have become increasingly familiar with instrumentation techniques, leading to a marked rise in the use of pedicle screws and rods for the treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis. However, attention has recently shifted toward reassessing the routine use of these fusion procedures. A sustained debate continues among experts regarding the optimal surgical management, aiming to better define the indications for fusion and avoid its unnecessary application. This study aims to provide emerging evidence to help establish clearer conclusions by evaluating whether segmental decompression alone or wide decompression with fixation offers superior clinical and radiological advantages for selected patient groups. The trial will be conducted across the Neurosurgery departments of Assiut University Hospitals and Misr University Teaching Hospital. Patient data will be collected using standardized, coded case report forms to ensure confidentiality.