Week 3 - Spinal Stenosis and Claudication Flashcards

1
Q

what is spinal stenosis?

A

loss of space for the cauda equina causing compression/irritation of multiple nerve roots

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2
Q

name 5 possible causes of spinal stenosis?

A

spondylitis
bulging discs
bulging ligamentum flavum
osteophytosis

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3
Q

who usually gets spinal stenosis?

A

over 60 y/o

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4
Q

what is the most characteristic symptom of spinal stenosis?

A

claudication in the legs

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5
Q

how does claudication due to spinal stenosis differ to that caused by peripheral vascular disease?

A

the distance which causes symptoms is inconsistent
the pain is burning rather than cramping
pain is less walking uphill
pedal pulses are preserved

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6
Q

how is spinal stenosis treated?

A

conservative management - physiotherapy, weight loss

decompression surgery - if symptoms don’t improve with conservative management and there is MRI evidence of stenosis

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