Spinal decompression and fixation

Spinal decompression surgery refers to various procedures intended to relieve symptoms caused by pressure, or compression, on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. Bulging or collapsed disks, thickened joints, loosened ligaments, and bony growths can narrow the spinal canal and the spinal nerve openings (foramen), causing irritation.

Symptoms of spinal nerve compression include:

• Pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Unsteadiness

In severe cases, pressure on the spinal nerves can cause paralysis and problems with bladder and/or bowel function.