What is the main goal of "decompressive surgery"?

The primary goal of decompressive surgery is to relieve pressure on spinal nerves or the spinal cord. This pressure can result from various conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other pathologies that can lead to symptoms like pain, weakness, or numbness. By alleviating this pressure, decompressive surgery aims to restore normal function and reduce discomfort, thereby improving the patient's quality of life.

This type of surgery does not primarily focus on realigning the spine, as that is typically the goal of corrective procedures. While tumor removal can sometimes be a part of surgery involving decompression, it is not the main intent of this specific type of surgery. Stabilizing fractured vertebrae is also a different goal, typically addressed by fusion surgeries rather than decompression alone. Therefore, the correct emphasis in decompressive surgery is on relieving pressure to ensure adequate nerve function and symptom management.