I'm having a hard time deciding on spinal fusion and a laminectomy. what is the long term prognosis if i don't? g1 spondylolisthesis, r&l foraminal sten

Gradual worsening: Gradual worsening with foot drops if you have significant neurologic symptoms peotecting the nervesc with reconstruction has a better long term out com if you have only axial backache surgical outcome is less obviously beneficial wiltze urged us to wait for the leg pain then intervene if you dont have leg pain then your nerves are ok.

Spondylolisthesis: Difficult decisions. Laminectomy is usually not indicated for a spondylolisthesis b/c there is a high risk of progression, up to 35% in some articles. If surgery is needed, fusion with instrumentation would be indicated. Depending on the type of spondylolisthesis, an interbody fusion may be indicated as well. God luck. Sh.

90% are treated: Nonop. Most do fine with no symptoms or symptoms controlled with exercise, medication, &/or injections. Surgery for most is a choice to relieve symptoms not relieved by nonop means. You can always choose to have surgery later in life with no change in outcome. Long term prognosis is fine with nonop care.