Changes in clinical signs after decompressive laminectomy in cervical spondylosis with myelopathy.

One to seven years after decompressive laminectomy a global improvement of symptoms is observed in ten patients out of 17. The importance of the diagnosis criteria is emphasised. Only the complete clinical form of sensitive and motor disablement has been considered. Attempts were made to quantify the degree of handicap and to follow the modifications of the elementary signs in the postoperative state. The operative results were better when the surgical intervention was performed early in the course of the illness.