Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on interspinous distraction procedures for lumbar spinal stenosis causing neurogenic claudication.

Authors' recommendations: 1 Guidance 1.1 Current evidence suggests there are no major safety concerns associated with interspinous distraction procedures for lumbar spinal stenosis causing neurogenic claudication, but evidence of efficacy is limited and is confined to the short and medium term. These procedures should only be used in the context of special arrangements for consent, audit and research. 1.2 Clinicians wishing to undertake interspinous distraction procedures for lumbar spinal stenosis causing neurogenic claudication should take the following actions. - Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts. - Ensure that patients understand that the procedure is not curative, and that further surgery may be needed. Patients should be provided with clear written information. In addition, use of the Institute's Information for the public is recommended (available from www.nice.org.uk/IPG165publicinfo). - Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having interspinous distraction procedures for spinal stenosis causing neurogenic claudication in the lumbar spine. 1.3 Publication of long-term efficacy data will be useful. The Institute may review the procedures upon publication of further evidence.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=297779

Year Published: 2006

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England

Organisation Name: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

Contact Address: Level 1A, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester, M1 4BT

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)