Lumbar Decompression versus Decompression and Fusion in Octogenarians: Complications and Clinical Course With 3-Year Follow-Up.

Lumbar decompression and additional fusion in octogenarians are considerable treatment techniques; albeit associated with increased complication risks. Prolonged operative time and extent of surgery are critical confounding factors associated with higher rates of postoperative complications. Surgery should only be performed after careful outweighing of potential benefits and risks.