Foraminotomy: Nerve Root Decompression Surgery

A pinched nerve root in the foraminal opening causes severe radiating pain in the arm or leg. Foraminotomy is a surgical procedure that widens the opening through which the nerve exits the spinal canal, relieving compression and restoring function.

What is a foraminotomy

Foraminotomy is an operation in which the surgeon enlarges the intervertebral foramen by removing bone spurs, portions of the facet joint, or disc fragments that are compressing the nerve root. The goal is to free the nerve and restore its normal function.

Indications

• Foraminal stenosis with radicular pain
• Arm or leg pain unresponsive to conservative treatment
• Numbness and weakness in the distribution of the compressed nerve root
• Foraminal disc herniations not suitable for standard discectomy

The procedure

Most of our endoscopic decompressions are done under local anaesthesia with sedation rather than general anaesthesia; the anaesthetist and surgeon decide per patient. Through a small incision, the surgeon uses an endoscope or operating microscope to visualize and carefully remove the bony and soft tissue structures narrowing the foramen until the nerve root is fully decompressed.

Benefits of endoscopic foraminotomy

• Incision smaller than 1 cm
• Minimal damage to surrounding tissues
• Preservation of spinal stability
• Rapid return to daily activities

Recovery

Patients typically notice improvement immediately after surgery: radicular pain decreases or resolves entirely. Light activity is permitted within a few days, and most patients return to work in 2-4 weeks.