Minimally invasive lumbar decompression, also called “mild,” is a treatment option for lumbar spinal stenosis patients with hypertrophic ligamentum flavum as a contributing factor. CMS increased reimbursement for the mild procedure at ASCs last year.
Researchers conducted a five-year follow-up with 75 patients who underwent the procedure from 2010 through 2015 at the Cleveland Clinic Department of Pain Management. The results, published May 4 in Pain Practice, found nine of those patients required lumbar surgical decompression during the five-year follow-up period.
The study concluded: “The mild procedure is durable over 5 years and may allow elderly patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis to avoid lumbar decompression surgery while providing significant symptomatic relief.”
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.