Foraminotomy
Enlargement of the opening through which nerve roots exit the spine — relieving compression without touching the disc.
Foraminotomy
Targeted decompression of the nerve exit point — often preserving the disc entirely.
A focused decompression that widens the nerve exit hole. No fusion. One to two night stay. Most patients feel arm or leg symptoms improve quickly.
What Is It?
Removes bone and thickened tissue around the foramen — the opening through which each nerve root exits — to relieve pressure without requiring disc removal or fusion. Used primarily for bony stenosis of the foramen rather than disc herniation.
Before Surgery
MRI and CT reviewed — CT is particularly important for bony foraminal stenosis. Clinical examination confirms the nerve level. Standard pre-operative fasting and clearance required.
During Surgery
General anaesthesia. 45–90 minutes. Small incision, targeted bone removal around the affected foramen using high-speed instruments under magnification. No implants required in most cases.
After Surgery
Hospital stay: one to two days. Nerve symptoms — arm or leg pain and numbness — often improve from the first days post-operatively. Activity restriction for two weeks.
Recovery
Physiotherapy: two to four weeks post-operatively. Desk work: three to five weeks. Return to physical activity: six to twelve weeks depending on procedure complexity.
Dr. Viswanath's Approach
Used when bony compression of the nerve root is the primary problem. Where a disc herniation is also present, foraminotomy and discectomy may be combined. Navigation used for complex anatomy.
Questions about
foraminotomy?
A consultation and imaging review will confirm whether foraminotomy is the right approach.