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Hi, dbamos1945: I have lumbar stenosis and severe nerve pain in the glutes, hamstrings, calves and ankles, and like you, couldn't have fusion due to osteoporosis. However, another physician said I also couldn't have a laminectomy because I have a bulging disc. After reading how great a result you had with your laminectomy, I am wondering whether I should be pressing ahead for another opinion. Could you tell me more about your spinal condition? Did you have any bulging discs? My problem apparently has to do with age-related deterioration plus an unusual thickness of the ligament in the spine, which is pinching nerves that serve my lower limbs. I have been through 3 rounds of pt to little avail and have seen two surgeons and two pain specialists (anesthesiologists), and so far I have come up with little option other than medical marijuana or prescription drugs. I have already tried gabapentin and pregabalin (Lyrica) and can't tolerate them, but am hesitant about the medical marijuana. Would much prefer a treatment that would solve my problem!
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I would get a second opinion. I've had 3 back surgeries. It's hereditary. My dad has had 6 and 2 siblings have had surgeries a combined total of 5. I have had 4 discectomies, 3 laminectomies. #1 laminectomy, L4-5 left side, laminectomy and discectomy. #2 L4-5 and L5-S1, not sure which side but 2 discectomies and at least one laminectomy. #3 laminectomy L4-5 right side side
My surgeon is considered world class and was part of President Clinton's medical team. Other doctors told me I had the A team.
You may also want to be seeing a physiatrist. They help before hand and can tell you what is happening as you heal from surgery. Mine has be invaluable. I was in the ER a year ago. They did MRI's and said I needed surgery (it would have to be scheduled, so not immediate). My physiatrist has helped determine when I do and don't need surgery (it's too long a story for today).
Someone commented about micro surgery. I had it on the first surgery but the second one Sometimes, if you've already had a surgery on that site, subsequent surgeries cannot be micro. Or, in my case, when they are doing multiple sites, they don't do micro.