Lumbar Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment, Recovery, and Hope
What is Lumbar Surgery?
Lumbar surgery encompasses a range of surgical procedures aimed at alleviating chronic lower back pain, instability, or nerve compression originating from the lumbar spine. Conditions such as spinal stenosis, lumbar disc herniation, spondylolisthesis, and degenerative disc disease are among the most common indications. These pathologies can significantly impact quality of life, causing persistent pain, reduced mobility, or even neurological deficits.
At Promohealth SL, Dr. Vicenç Gilete brings over 25 years of neurosurgical expertise, performing a variety of surgical procedures on the lumbar spine, including minimally invasive techniques, decompressions, fusions, and disc replacements. His dedication to technological innovation and compassionate care makes our center uniquely equipped to provide hope for patients facing complex spinal challenges.
When is Lumbar Surgery Recommended?
Surgical intervention is typically considered only after conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and injections have failed to provide relief. Some of the main criteria include:
- Severe or persistent lower back pain not relieved by non-surgical treatments
- Radiating leg pain or sciatica due to nerve compression
- Progressive neurological symptoms (e.g., numbness, weakness, bladder dysfunction)
- Structural instability of the lumbar spine
- Failed back syndrome
Each case is reviewed individually. As Dr. Gilete emphasizes, “Surgery is never the first option; comprehensive evaluation including imaging and immunological aspects is considered before any procedure is proposed.”
Common Conditions Treated with Lumbar Surgery
Lumbar Disc Herniation
A ruptured or bulging disc that compresses nearby nerves. Surgical removal of the affected disc portion (microdiscectomy) often yields significant relief.
Spinal Stenosis
A narrowing of the spinal canal that causes pressure on the nerves. A lumbar decompression surgery can relieve the compression and restore function.
Spondylolisthesis
This condition involves the slipping of one vertebra over another, leading to instability and nerve impingement. Lumbar fusion is a common surgical solution.
Degenerative Disc Disease
The natural wear and tear of spinal discs may require surgery when symptoms are severe and persistent.
Rhizolysis
For patients with facet joint-related pain, rhizolysis (radiofrequency nerve ablation) can provide targeted pain relief.
Dr. Gilete and his surgical team ensure highly specialized care in every case.
Types of Lumbar Spine Surgery
1. Microdiscectomy
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Removes herniated disc material
- Short recovery time
2. Lumbar Decompression (Laminectomy)
- Widens the spinal canal
- Relieves nerve pressure in spinal stenosis
- Often combined with fusion in unstable cases
3. Lumbar Fusion
- Stabilizes the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae
- Recommended for spondylolisthesis or severe degeneration
4. Artificial Disc Replacement
- Preserves mobility by replacing the damaged disc
- An advanced option for selected patients with discogenic pain
5. Rhizolysis
- Targeted nerve ablation to manage facet joint pain
- Useful in select chronic pain cases with/without structural damage
At Promohealth SL, we assess each patient using MRI and advanced diagnostics to tailor the most appropriate surgical or non-surgical plan.
How is Lumbar Surgery Performed?
Surgical procedures are performed at Teknon Medical Center, an award-winning hospital accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). Each surgery is guided by real-time neuro-navigation and neurophysiological monitoring, minimizing risks to spinal cord and nerve structures.
Dr. Gilete personally oversees all surgical cases, working closely with our interdisciplinary team including orthopedic spine surgeons, internal medicine specialists, anesthesiologists, and post-surgical rehabilitation staff.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
After surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for a few days, depending on the procedure. Our protocol includes:
- ICU monitoring in complex surgeries
- Early mobilization (usually day 1-2 post-op)
- Weekly check-ups before returning home
- Follow-up via teleconsultation for international patients
One patient described: “From start to finish the care and advice provided was superb. I am two weeks post full lumbar fusion and I can barely recognise myself. I had hoped for improvements but my expectations have been more than exceeded!”
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgical procedure, lumbar surgery carries some risks:
- Infection
- Nerve injury
- Failure to relieve symptoms
- Adjacent segment disease (in case of fusion)
That’s why at Promohealth SL we conduct extensive preoperative assessments, including:
- Imaging
- Genetic and inflammatory testing if indicated
- Personalized anesthetic protocols (including opioid-free anesthesia if required)
Our multidisciplinary evaluation ensures that surgery is proposed only when absolutely indicated and with maximum patient safety.
Why Choose Promohealth SL in Barcelona?
- Europe’s only specialist spine center recognized as EDS Center of Excellence
- Over 25 years of neurosurgical expertise with complex lumbar cases
- Advanced imaging protocols including 3T MRI and AI-powered prone lumbar MRI
- Personalized, multidisciplinary care for each patient
- International patient coordination and English-speaking team
“Once a diagnosis is obtained and a surgical option is discussed, surgical cases are personally overseen by Dr. Gilete together with our entire team of specialists.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is lumbar surgery painful?
Pain is well-managed using modern anesthesia and pain control protocols. Most patients report rapid improvement after surgery.
How long is the recovery period?
Varies by procedure. Microdiscectomy may require 2–3 weeks, while fusions may take 1–3 months for full recovery.
Do I need to travel to Barcelona for treatment?
You can choose between remote evaluation or in-person consultation. Many patients combine imaging and surgery planning in a single trip.
Is it safe to fly after surgery?
We recommend staying in Barcelona 10–15 days post-surgery. Our team provides clearance and follow-up before your return.
Will I lose mobility after lumbar fusion?
Fusion limits movement in direct relationship with the number of spinal levels but often improves overall mobility by reducing pain.
Conclusion
Lumbar surgery can restore quality of life when conservative measures fail. At Promohealth SL, we combine surgical excellence, advanced technology and personalized care to offer you the best possible outcomes. Whether you suffer from spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or other degenerative lumbar conditions, we are here to guide your path to recovery.
Request your consultation today — in person or online — and let us help you reclaim your life.
Reviewed and approved by Dr. Vicenç Gilete, MD, Neurosurgeon & Spine Surgeon | May 20, 2025
