Spinal Surgery

Spinal Decompression | Minamally Invasive Decompression Los Angeles

For patients seeking minimally invasive decompression in Los Angeles, expert care is available to address these issues effectively.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Back pain, regardless of its cause, can be debilitating for those who suffer from it. Understanding the underlying cause is essential to determining the most effective treatment. The spine is a complex structure composed of bones, nerves, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and discs. These components work together to support the body and enable upright posture.

The vertebrae are the bony building blocks of the spine, cushioned and supported by the discs between them. Over time, aging and other factors can damage these spinal components, leading to severe pain, neurological symptoms, or even loss of mobility. For patients seeking minimally invasive decompression in Los Angeles, expert care is available to address these issues effectively.

Overview of Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression surgery is a general term for various procedures designed to relieve symptoms caused by pressure—or compression—on the spinal cord and nerve roots. This pressure can result from herniated discs, bone spurs, or other spinal abnormalities.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, spinal decompression includes several surgical options such as:

  • Corpectomy
  • Discectomy
  • Laminotomy
  • Foraminotomy
  • Osteophyte removal

Each procedure targets specific causes of nerve compression to alleviate pain and restore function.

Symptoms of Spinal Compression

Spinal nerve compression can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Numbness or tingling sensations
  • Pain radiating along the nerve path
  • Muscle weakness
  • Unsteadiness or difficulty walking
  • In severe cases, paralysis or loss of bladder and bowel control

Recognizing these symptoms early can help patients seek timely treatment.

Causes of Spinal Compression

Common causes of spinal compression include:

  • Herniated or bulging discs pressing on nerves
  • Bone spurs (osteophytes) due to arthritis or degeneration
  • Thickened ligaments or other soft tissue abnormalities
  • Vertebral fractures or deformities

These factors can narrow the spinal canal or nerve root openings, leading to compression.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing spinal compression typically involves:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination
  • Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize spinal structures
  • Neurological assessments to evaluate nerve function

Accurate diagnosis is critical for selecting the appropriate decompression procedure.

Treatment Options

Discectomy

A discectomy involves removing a portion of a damaged disc to relieve pressure on nearby nerve roots. This procedure is often recommended when herniated discs cause nerve compression leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.

Laminotomy and Laminectomy

Both procedures involve removing part of the lamina, the bony arch covering the spinal canal:

  • Laminotomy: Removal of a small section of the lamina to enlarge the spinal canal.
  • Laminectomy: Removal of the entire lamina to provide more extensive decompression.

These surgeries increase the space in the spinal canal, reducing nerve pressure and alleviating pain.

Foraminotomy and Foraminectomy

These procedures expand the openings where nerve roots exit the spinal canal by removing bone and soft tissues:

  • Foraminotomy: Partial removal to widen the nerve root openings.
  • Foraminectomy: More extensive removal of bone and tissue to relieve severe compression.

Osteophyte Removal

This surgery removes bone spurs (osteophytes) that develop along the spine and contribute to nerve compression.

Corpectomy

A corpectomy involves removing one or more vertebrae and adjacent discs. This procedure is used in severe cases to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the spine, often combined with spinal fusion techniques.

Advanced Minimally Invasive Decompression in Los Angeles

Minimally invasive spinal decompression techniques offer the benefits of smaller incisions, reduced tissue damage, faster recovery, and less postoperative pain. Patients in the Los Angeles area seeking these advanced options can find expert care tailored to their needs.

Dr. Parham Yashar, a highly skilled neurosurgeon based in Los Angeles, specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery. Since completing his fellowship and residency in 2012, Dr. Yashar has become a leading expert in spine, brain, and neuro-interventional procedures across Los Angeles, San Fernando, and Santa Clarita.

At Yashar Neurosurgery, Dr. Yashar focuses on personalized treatment plans, educating patients about their conditions, and guiding them through every step of care—whether non-surgical or surgical. His compassionate approach ensures patients receive the best possible outcomes.

Recovery & Prognosis

Recovery from spinal decompression varies depending on the procedure and individual patient factors. Minimally invasive techniques generally allow for:

  • Shorter hospital stays
  • Faster return to daily activities
  • Reduced postoperative pain and scarring

Long-term prognosis is favorable when patients follow their surgeon’s recommendations and engage in appropriate rehabilitation.

When to See a Specialist

If you experience persistent back pain, neurological symptoms, or mobility issues, it is important to consult a specialist promptly. Patients in the Los Angeles area should seek evaluation from a neurosurgeon experienced in spinal care.

For those considering surgical options, consulting the **best spinal decompression surgeon in Los Angeles** can ensure access to advanced techniques and expert guidance tailored to your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is spinal decompression surgery?

Spinal decompression surgery includes various procedures aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by conditions like herniated discs or bone spurs.

Who is the best spinal decompression surgeon in Los Angeles for decompression surgery?

Dr. Parham Yashar is recognized as one of the best spinal decompression surgeons in Los Angeles, specializing in minimally invasive decompression and comprehensive spine care.

Are minimally invasive decompression procedures safe?

Yes, minimally invasive techniques are generally safe and offer benefits such as smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

How do I know if I need spinal decompression surgery?

If you have persistent symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or severe back pain that does not improve with conservative treatments, a specialist can evaluate whether decompression surgery is appropriate.

If you are experiencing serious spinal issues, do not delay. Make an appointment with Dr. Yashar today to explore your treatment options with the best spinal surgeon in Los Angeles.

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