Unilateral Laminotomy vs. Conventional Laminectomy: Which is Better for Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?

Objectives:  To compare the outcomes of conventional laminectomy and unilateral laminotomy for lumbar spinal stenosis. Materials and Methods:  The results of our research were compared between unilateral laminotomy (Group A) and conventional laminectomy (Group B) for lumbar spinal stenosis using a sample of 60 cases (30 in each group) selected through non-probability convenient sampling. We calculated the sample size using OPENEPI and analyzed the data with SPSS 26.0. For qualitative and quantitative data. Results:  Mean age of participants was 49.7 years in both groups, The sample consisted of 37 male and 23 female participants made up the patient population. Dural tears (5%), progressive neurological deficit (0%), and surgical site infections (1%), among other postoperative complications, were all treated with antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity. Conclusion:  Bilateral decompression via unilateral laminotomy is a less invasive alternative to conventional laminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis, with significantly improved pain scores and minimized hospital stay. This technique offers appropriate decompression of neuronal components at the affected level with no increased risk of complications. Keywords:  Degenerative, Spinal Stenosis, Unilateral Laminotomy, Conventional Laminectomy