Question
I was in a car accident back in August 06.  This apparently aggravated spinal stenosis.  I have constant 24/7 back pain as well as pain down the left buttock and left thigh. When in bed, this pain goes down past the knee.  I have had 4 injections; epidural, 2 nerve blocks and facet.. none has given me any relief. Based upon the mri, a neurosurgeon has given my 2 options; a rhizotomy or laminectomy. I have researched both, but would like your opinion as to which procedure would give me a better chance of eliminating the pain.

Answer
Although I am not a physician or neurosurgeon, I can tell you that I would choose the rhizotomy because it is a lower risk procedure.  Complications are rare on facet rhizotomies but there are significant risks involved in a decompression laminectomy.

Every spinal cord condition is unique to the individual.  Therefore, your neurosurgeon knows your case better than anyone on the internet ever could.  He/she can give you the best answers are your specific case. He/she has all your tests, films, and complete medical history.  I suggest asking him/her which procedure that they believe to be in your best overall interest.

Thank you for your question, George.  I hope that my answer was helpful.