[Lateral stenosis of the lumbar canal].

The authors report about 139 cases of nerve root compression due to a lumbar stenosis of the lateral recess. Saccoradiculography seems to be the best examination technique, and the radioclinical agreement is satisfactory. The technique for the surgical treatment and the extent of the release are described. Decompression must involve the symptomatic nerve roots, as well as those who appear to be displaced or amputated on radiculography. The only prognostic element noted in this study is the duration of evolution of preoperative symptoms. Thus the results may be less good for radicular pain lasting for more than one year.