Patients are generally maintained at bedrest for several hours following the surgical procedure. They are typically advanced to ambulation on the day of surgery. Patients are usually advanced to a regular diet on a gradual basis and IV fluids are discontinued when they are able to accept liquids. IV antibiotics are usually given pre-operatively and for 24 hours post-operatively. If the patient is independent with ambulation, able to tolerate a regular diet, and afebrile and able to void they are discharged in one to two days for one or two level procedures or in 2-3 days for multiple level procedures. Patients having undergone multiple level lumbar decompressions in our experience have remained in the hospital an average of 2.7% days.

Spinal stenosis is the most common diagnosis requiring multiple level lumbar laminectomies. Given that this condition occurs more frequently in elderly patients, it is not surprising that the average patient age for this procedure is 69 years. This may have an effect on the post-operative hospitalization.

Patients are advised at the time of discharge to avoid activities such as bending, lifting, and vigorous twisting. They are instructed on body mechanics or techniques in sitting, standing, and transferring out of bed, etc. Patients are typically prescribed pain medication to be taken by mouth as needed and occasionally anti-inflammatory medication for residual nerve root swelling and irritation.

Patients are generally advised to refrain from getting the incision wet for three days post-operatively. At that time they may shower. It is generally advisable to avoid submerging the incision in a tub or pool for at least one week.

Follow-up examinations are typically conducted at one week, one month, and three months post-operatively.

At approximately one month post-operatively patients are referred for physical therapy. This includes a graduated course of lower extremity and lumbar flexibility, strengthening, and instructions on body mechanics and postural alignment. Patients are generally advised to increase their recreational and daily activities commensurate with their progress at physical therapy.