If you've been recommended for lumbar decompression surgery, you may be asking what you should do to prepare and what to expect from the procedure.

Although each individual's surgical experience is unique, there are some things you can do and anticipate to make the procedure go more quickly for yourself.

A quick look at lumbar decompression surgery
Lumbar decompression surgery is performed to allow extra space for your spinal cord. Spinal stenosis or a herniated disc can cause the spinal canal to narrow, resulting in a variety of symptoms.

The methods employed can differ. A partial discectomy may suffice in certain cases, while others may necessitate a laminectomy or foraminotomy.

All spinal decompression surgeries are done under general anesthesia, which means you will be unconscious the entire time.

Preparing for your lumbar decompression surgery
Preparing for surgery is one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself. It not only relieves worry and uncertainty before surgery, but it also helps you to concentrate on recovery.

Get as much documentation completed as possible before your spinal decompression. On the day of your treatment, this will save you time. It will also allow you to learn what kind of insurance coverage you may expect.

Next, make arrangements for assistance when you get home. After the procedure, you’ll need to relax most of the time. You'll also be limited in your activities.

That is why you should consider child and pet care, especially if you have kids who need lifting, diaper changes, or transportation to and from school.

Getting lab testing done is another thing you may do to prepare for your surgery. This could include blood tests or imaging tests. Your surgeon will advise you on which of these tests you can have done ahead of time.

The day of your surgery
You must arrive early on the day of your operation. Any paperwork that was not completed previously will be performed now. Furthermore, you may be given further information about your insurance and any additional fees you may face.

After checking in, you will be led back to the surgery prep area. You will change into a hospital gown here. An intravenous catheter will be implanted, allowing fluids and drugs to be administered to you.

Your anesthesiologist will also visit you. They will ask about any medicine allergies you have and concerns concerning pain.

When you are ready to return to surgery, you will be sedated and transported to the operating room.

The surgery
A team of experts will support your surgeon to ensure that your operation goes as smoothly as possible. Only minor incisions in your skin are required for all three of the aforementioned treatments. Your surgeon will then employ a specialized microscope and surgical equipment developed in small spaces.

Your surgeon will decide which piece of the herniated disc rests against your spinal cord or nerves if you have a partial discectomy. They will then gently eliminate the problematic areas.

After your treatments are completed, your incision will be closed, and you will be transferred to a recovery area. You'll be carefully monitored here until you wake up. Your vitals will be examined, pain medicine will be administered and changed, and you will be transferred to another hospital area once you are stable.

On average, your hospital stay after surgery will be between 1 and 4 days. This will depend on the complexity of your surgery and how well you respond to pain meds. During this time, you will be switched to oral pain medications and, if necessary, brief physical therapy.

Post-procedure tips to follow
- When you're ready to go home, your surgeon will review your restrictions and recovery instructions. Follow their instructions, including when and how to use pain relievers.
- When you get home, you'll most likely be more tired than usual. This is because of the anesthetic and the fact that your body is recuperating. Get enough rest.
- Regular walks can keep your circulation flowing, and a healthy, balanced diet will provide your body with the nutrients it requires to heal better and faster.
- You mustn't smoke after having a spinal fusion. This can result in slower healing or perhaps the failure of the bone transplants entirely.
- You must attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor. The first will most likely occur 10-14 days following your operation. Depending on the surgery, you may need X-rays or an MRI to monitor your progress.

Getting prepared for your spinal decompression surgery may require some effort at first. Still, it will save you nerves and time in the long run – the energy you should be putting into recovering and returning to your everyday life!