Surgical outcome of “Neurogenic claudication and walking limitation” due to degenerative Lumbar spinal canal stenosis

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of surgical decompression of the lumbar spinal canal, a procedure involving the removal of ligamentum and other degenerated elements causing pressure on the thecal sac, nerve roots, and neurovascular structures. The procedure is considered essential for patients experiencing neurogenic claudication, low back pain, lower limb pain and paresthesia, and decreased walking performance, to effectively decompress the lumbar canal. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent surgical decompression at Shar hospital between 2018 and 2020. A total of 57 eligible patients were followed up to assess the outcomes related to neurogenic claudication and walking ability after 12-24 months postoperatively. Results: The postoperative results for neurogenic claudication and walking ability were found to be satisfactory in nearly three-quarters of the cases. The duration of symptoms significantly influenced the results, while factors such as gender, body mass index, smoking history, the number of stenosed levels operated, and the type of stenosis did not show significant impact. Conclusion: Surgical decompression for degenerative lumbar canal stenosis is a relatively low-risk procedure with a very high rate of postoperative patient satisfaction regarding neurogenic claudication and improved walking distance. These positive outcomes are particularly evident when the procedure is performed promptly, by an experienced surgeon, and with appropriate patient selection.