What to expect from laminectomy for spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis means one vertebra has shifted in relation to another. The shift can narrow the space around spinal nerves and cause back pain, leg pain, tingling, or weakness. A laminectomy removes part of the bony covering to relieve nerve pressure.

If removing bone could leave the segment unstable, the surgeon may recommend fusion as well. Fusion uses implants and bone healing to hold the vertebrae in a planned position. Your operation and restrictions depend on the movement of the vertebra, symptoms, imaging, and spinal stability.

Prepare for help with bathing, dressing, meals, and transport. Walk as instructed, protect the wound, and avoid bending, twisting, or lifting beyond your limits. After decompression alone, activity may advance differently than after fusion; follow the specific plan rather than comparing your recovery with someone else’s.

Physiotherapy may cover log-rolling, posture, walking, leg strength, and safe daily tasks. Do not drive or resume strenuous work until your surgeon has checked your movement, neurological symptoms, and medication effects.

Get urgent medical advice for new or worsening leg weakness, saddle numbness, trouble passing urine, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe escalating back or leg pain. Fever, wound drainage, spreading redness, calf swelling, chest pain, or breathing difficulty also requires prompt assessment.

Ask whether decompression alone or fusion is planned, how stability will be assessed, which movements and loads are restricted, and what milestones guide return to driving, work, and exercise.