OBJECTIVETo propose a new technique to treat lumbar spinal stenosis with median approach endoscopic decompression combined with interspinous process implant fusion and evaluate the initial clinical outcome.

METHODSThis study involved 30 patients who had neurogenic commitment claudication over 2 years and were resistant to conservative therapy. All cases were treated using the median approach endoscopic decompression combined with interspinous process implant fusion in 2006. Clinical signs and radicular pain were noted and evaluated preoperatively and at the 1st month and 3rd month postoperatively. Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score was used to evaluate leg and back pain. X-ray films at flexion and extension were applied to evaluate the range of motion at involved segments.

RESULTSThere was a significant increase in JOA score postoperatively, but no significant difference preoperatively or postoperatively between the two groups.The range of motion at involved segments was significantly higher in the control group.

CONCLUSIONSThe median approach endoscopic decompression is an ideal method for bilateral radiculopathy resulting from lumbar spinal canal stenosis. The combination with interspinous process implant fusion can stabilize the spine.The initial clinical outcome is exllent. Preservation of adjacent level disease can be assessed only in long-term follow-up.