Surgical management of spinal stenosis: a comparison of immediate and long term outcome in two geriatric patient populations.

This retrospective study was performed to assess and compare the immediate safety and long term outcome of surgical decompression of spinal stenosis when performed for geriatric patients aged 65-74 years (Group A) and those >75 years (Group B) of age. Some 283 patients were studied (179 and 104 patients in Groups A and B, respectively). The mean follow-up time was 41.5 months (range: 9-115) and 42.9 months (range: 9-106) for Groups A and B, respectively. Within both treatment groups, there was a significant (P<0.0001) subjective improvement in low back and radicular pain, as well as the ability to perform daily activities. When compared to preoperative levels, the oral scores for pain while performing daily activities were significantly (P<0.001) improved in both treatment groups. The overall postoperative complication rate was similar between the groups. Age is not a contraindication for decompressive lumbar spine surgery. However, since both Group A and B patients are likely to suffer minor perioperative complications, increased vigilance and careful monitoring are essential for this high risk population.