spinal stenosis

Question 1

what is spinal stenosis

Answer 1

narrowing of spinal canal

compression of spinal cord or nerve roots

Question 2

where does spinal stenosis most commonly affect

Answer 2

cervical or lumbar spine

Question 3

central stenosis

Answer 3

narrowing of central spinal canal

Question 4

lateral stenosis

Answer 4

narrowing of nerve root canals

Question 5

foramina stenosis

Answer 5

narrowing of intervertebral foramina

Question 6

causes of spinal stenosis

Answer 6

congenital spinal stenosis 
degenerative changes
herniated discs
spinal #
spondylothithesis 
tumours

Question 7

presentation

Answer 7

gradual symptom onset

varies depending on degree of stenosis , if severe can mimic causa ewuina

Question 8

presentation - lumbar spinal stenosis with central stenosis

Answer 8

intermittent neurogenic claudication

• lower back pain
• buttock + leg pain
• leg weakness

Question 9

presentation - lateral and formaina stenosis

Answer 9

symptoms of sciatica

Question 10

radiculopathy

Answer 10

refers to compression of nerve roots as they exit spinal cord and spinal column –> motor and sensory symptoms

Question 11

Ix

Answer 11

MRI is primary imaging

investigations to exclude PAD

Question 12

Mx

Answer 12

exercise and weight loss
analgesia
physiotherapy
deocompression surgery

Question 13

laminectomy

Answer 13

removal of part or all of lamina from the effected vertebra