A patient arrived with hip pain radiating down the leg, accompanied by numbness, weakness, leg cramps, and difficulty walking. Prolonged standing or walking worsened these symptoms. Despite numerous recommendations for surgery, he hesitated due to fear. Seeking an alternative, he consulted with a specialist in endoscopic spine surgery at Walailak University Hospital. After an assessment, it was determined that his symptoms were indicative of lumbar spinal stenosis, causing compression of the nerve root.
Undergoing endoscopic surgery to enlarge the nerve root cavity along two lumbar spines, the patient felt significantly better. After the surgery, he reported feeling less pain and numbness, regained his ability to walk normally, and did not experience any complications, expressing satisfaction with the outcome. While spinal stenosis primarily results from body degeneration, early detection and treatment can prevent symptoms worsening. Furthermore, advancements in surgical technology, such as endoscopy, have led to smaller incisions, reduced complications, and shorter recovery times, facilitating earlier return to normal life for patients.
Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis:
- Digital radiography (X-Ray) is used to observe any changes in the spine.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is utilised to detect damage to the spinal discs, aiding surgeons to pinpoint the specific area of nerve compression within the spinal cord.
