Lumbar canal stenosis: Surgical and functional outcome in a neurosurgery ward, benin

Background The lumbar canal stenosis is a common spine disorder. In Parakou, surgical management is usual despite our modest working conditions. Objective This study aimed to report surgical and functional outcomes of lumbar canal stenosis management at one neurosurgery unit in Benin. Methods It was a retrospective and descriptive study based on record of patient’s data. It included all patients who underwent surgical management for lumbar canal stenosis between January 2008 and March 2013 in the CHD-Borgou to Benin. Clinical data and imaging finding have enabled the diagnosis and surgical indications. The variables studied were the socio-demographic data the clinical signs, imaging and post-operative patient evolution. Results During the study period, 178 patients who underwent surgery for lumbar canal stenosis was included. There were 97 men (54.5%) and 81 women (45.5%). The mean age was 52.36 ± 10.94 years. Neurogenic claudication (92.7%), the radicular pain (93, 8%) and urinary disorders (59.6%) were the main clinical signs. The mean disease duration was 3.55 ± 2.46 years. Lumbar CT-scan contributed to the diagnosis for 147 patients (82.6%). The postoperative course was easy (88.8%) and the functional results were excellent or good in 84.2% of cases. The main complications were dural tear (5.6%) and wound infection (3.9%). Mortality was 1.1% (n = 2). Conclusion Surgical management of lumbar canal stenosis is practicable in Parakou. Post-operative satisfaction and functional outcome agree with the literature.