Lumbar Foraminotomy Procedure in New Jersey
If you are struggling with radiating pain, tingling, or numbness caused by nerve compression, you may be a candidate for lumbar foraminotomy. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides this and other minimally invasive spine surgeries, helping patients with spine conditions find lasting relief. Our services are available at locations throughout New Jersey. Get in touch to find out how we can relieve your pain.
What Is Lumbar Foraminotomy?
Lumbar foraminotomy is a procedure that widens the foramen, tiny holes that allow root nerves to exit the spinal cord. The spine is constructed with a series of interlocking vertebral bones. Between each pair of vertebrae are two foramina. Through these, the root nerves spread and branch out to allow the brain to communicate with the entire body.
When the foramen becomes too narrow due to a spine condition, the root nerves become pinched. This obstructs the flow of nerve signals, resulting in pain. By enlarging the hole, the surgeon can relieve pressure on the nerve roots and create the space they need to function. This provides a permanent solution to nerve pain and other symptoms.
What Does Lumbar Foraminotomy Treat?
Before recommending a lumbar foraminotomy, a spine specialist will carefully monitor your condition. He will likely begin with conservative treatments such as painkiller medications, physical therapy, or steroid injections. In some cases, symptoms may be unresponsive to non-invasive treatments. These symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain that radiates to your arms or legs
- Tingling in your limbs, hands, or feet
- Numbness in your back or legs
- Weakness or feelings of instability in the legs or lower spine
These symptoms may be caused by several conditions. At NU-Spine, we may recommend a lumbar foraminotomy procedure to treat the following:
- Degenerative disc disease: Over time, spinal discs begin to shrink and turn brittle. This reduces the support between vertebrae, narrowing the foramen.
- Lumbar slipped disc: This condition occurs when a spinal disc slips out of place. The misaligned disc may intrude on the foramen, pressing against the root nerve.
- Lumbar herniated disc: Spinal discs may also rupture entirely. This allows the soft nucleus to leak into the surrounding openings, including the foramen.
- Lumbar spinal stenosis: Stenosis occurs when pressure is placed on the spinal cord. This can occur for the same reason the foramen has narrowed.
- Pars defect (spondylosis): This refers to a spinal stress fracture caused by overuse. Damaged bone around the foramen can interfere with nerve root function.
Your spinal specialist will recommend the right procedure for your pain. Whether he suggests lumbar foraminotomy or another treatment, surgery may be the first step toward restoring your active lifestyle.
Our Spine Surgeon at NU-Spine
At NU-Spine, lumbar foraminotomy and other spinal procedures are performed by Branko Skovrlj, MD. He is a world-renowned spine specialist known for his skill with treatments and his contributions to improving the field of spine surgery. Dr. Skovrlj is one of the few board-certified neurosurgeons in New Jersey to focus solely on the spine, and he has mastered many techniques to relieve patients’ pain. He also takes the time to get to know his patients and build a rapport.
Dr. Skovrlj specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery. This is an advanced technique that uses smaller incisions than traditional open surgery, allowing for a faster procedure that causes less stress to the body. Patients typically experience an easier recovery with more positive results.
How Lumbar Foraminotomy Is Performed
You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for six to twelve hours before the procedure. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep while Dr. Skovrlj operates on your spine. Once you have arrived at your appointment and anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Skovrlj will perform the following steps:
- He makes a tiny incision near the affected area.
- A specialized camera is inserted into the incision to give Dr. Skovrlj a better view.
- Skovrlj uses small tools to expose the foramen and remove obstructive tissue.
- The incision is closed and dressed in sterile bandages.
Lumbar foraminotomy is performed on an outpatient basis, and patients are often allowed to return home on the same day of their procedure. Some patients may require a short hospital stay for monitoring. Once you are ready to go home, Dr. Skovrlj will provide recovery instructions. You’ll have to avoid driving and strenuous activity for a few weeks, and physical therapy may be recommended to help you regain strength and flexibility.
Treat Your Pain at NU-Spine
If you are experiencing lower back pain that could be treated with lumbar foraminotomy, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with the spine experts at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation at one of our locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, Freehold, or Hainesport, NJ.
