The latest research from Sweden evaluated the use of different types of surgery for patients with spinal stenosis.  Some of the patients also had degenerative spondylolisthesis.

One group of patients had decompression surgery to alleviate the pressure on the spinal cord from the stenosis.  The second group also had decompression surgery, and in addition had the affected spinal segments fused.

The results were that after 2 years, the two groups had nearly identical results.  The only difference was that the group who had the added spinal fusion had undergone a more extensive and lengthier surgical procedure.

Interestingly, in both groups, about 20% of the patients needed further surgery within the two year period of the study.

Dr. Lavine has been an innovator in the use of movement and touch to promote health since 1981. He practices in New York City and Princeton, NJ.

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