Column Comparison Between the Cellgel Method and Surgical Decompression for Spinal Canal Stenosis – Part 1
November 15, 2022
Surgical treatments for lumbar spinal canal stenosis can be broadly divided into two main approaches: decompression surgery and fusion surgery.
In this article, we will focus on a comparison between decompression surgery and the Cellgel Method.
The Cellgel Method
This is the main treatment offered at our clinic.
It is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, suitable even for patients who are not candidates for conventional surgery.
The treatment is performed under local anesthesia using a fine needle, minimizing the physical burden on the body.
Treatment Effect: It facilitates the repair of the intervertebral disc itself. The disc recovers through its own regenerative ability after repair.
For more detailed information, please refer to the links below:
👉 Column explaining the Cellgel Method in an easy-to-understand format
👉 Click Here to Learn More About the Cellgel Method
Decompression Surgery (Conventional Surgical Method)
This is one of the standard surgical procedures for spinal canal stenosis.
Our clinic does not perform decompression surgery.
The procedure involves shaving and removing the structures compressing the spinal canal — such as bone, disc material, or ligaments—to relieve pressure on the nerves.
The procedure can be performed through an open incision or endoscopically. The open incision method (cutting the skin and removing bone/ligaments) is more widely practiced in Japan.
During the procedure, the skin is incised, and part of the vertebral arch (lamina) is removed, followed by removal of the compressive tissues.
The Cellgel Method vs. Decompression Surgery: A Comparison
The following table compares the two methods based on various parameters:
| Item | Cellgel Method | Decompression Surgery |
| Cost | High (out-of-pocket) Between ¥1,320,000 to ¥1,760,000 | Covered by insurance, approx. ¥300,000 with 30% copay |
| Time from first visit to treatment | Same-day treatment | Around 3 to 4 weeks |
| Hospitalization | None | Required (approx. 1 week) |
| Procedure time per level | 15 to 20 min | 60 to 90 min |
| Anesthesia | Local | General |
| Skin incision | Extremely small (needle puncture only) | Approx. 20 to 30 mm |
| Blood loss | 0–10 ml | 50–100 ml |
| Tissue damage | None (only a needle is inserted) | Muscle detachment and tissue damage |
| Onset of therapeutic effect | Mid – to long-term (1–3 months) | Immediate |
| Post-surgical impact | Disc is repaired | May result in spinal instability due to bone removal |
| Return to daily activities | From the next day | Requires 1–2 weeks |
The Cellgel Method treats the disc without damaging surrounding tissu
It is an excellent option for patients who wish to avoid hospitalization, are considered high-risk for surgery, or cannot afford long recovery periods.
