Laminectomy

A Comprehensive Guide by the Brain and Spine Neurosurgical Institute

 

Introduction to a Laminectomy Surgery

Are you dealing with persistent back and leg discomfort due to spinal stenosis? Relief may be within reach. Our guide provides insights into a laminectomy surgery, a specialized surgical procedure designed to alleviate symptoms arising from nerve compression. This comprehensive resource will walk you through the surgery, delve into spine anatomy, outline the procedure's steps, and offer post-operative guidance. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your treatment.

Understanding Spinal Stenosis and Laminectomies

The agony of spinal stenosis, characterized by back pain, weakness, and numbness, often stems from nerve compression. A laminectomy, skillfully performed by our dedicated surgeons, targets the problematic area of the vertebra's roof (lamina) responsible for discomfort. By addressing the root issue, a laminectomy presents a tailored solution for spinal stenosis, potentially eliminating the need for an extended hospital stay.

Anatomy of Spine and Nerve Compression

Image of spinal cord extending from base of the skull

The spinal cord, seen above as a group of closely packed thin yellow strands, is a collection of nerves that extends from the base of the skull. The spinal cord is surrounded and protected by the vertebrae of the spinal column. The back portion or posterior spinal column is made up of the lamina stacked one on top of the other.

Exploring the Vertebra and Nerve Compression

 As we move downward along the spine, we reach the cauda equina. Here, the nerve roots begin to separate as they extend outwards from the spinal column and into other parts of the body. In certain instances, the lamina will become slightly displaced and push into the spinal canal. 

Image of a displaced vertebra pressing against a nerve root

This displacement may result in the vertebra pressing against one of the nerve roots and may cause the patient pain. The narrowing of the spinal canal is known as spinal stenosis. 

Identifying Spinal Stenosis Through Imaging

Image of a spinal canal with stenosis vs a spinal canal without stenosis

In the above photo, we see a bird's-eye view of the spinal canal. Clearly, the spinal canal on the left is narrower than on the right and thus can be diagnosed with stenosis. Patients presenting with spinal stenosis often experience pain in either their arms or legs. The location of the pain is based on where the spinal canal obstruction occurs. Each spinal nerve connects to a different part of the body, therefore a variety of different scenarios may occur. 

Specifically, disturbance to the nerves along the top or cervical vertebra commonly results in arm pain. Similarly, leg pain becomes a common symptom if nerves along the middle or lumbar vertebrae are afflicted. 

Procedure

Our surgeons complete a laminectomy with the patient lying on his or her stomach. A vertical incision is made at the site of the spinal cord impingement. Surrounding muscles are held aside to gain access to the laminae. A drill is used to remove the portion of displaced bone. Other instruments are used to relieve any pressure on the nerves and return the spinal canal to its healthy form. The incision is then closed and the procedure is complete.

Post-Surgery

  • This procedure will last between 1 to 2 hours, based on the number of affected spinal nerves

  • In most cases, laminectomies are performed as outpatient procedures and patients returned home the same day 

  • Patients can expect to be walking shortly after surgery

  • Pain due to swollen nerves is common for about two days after the procedure

Wound Care

Following your surgery, watch our video on correct wound care.

 

Physical Therapy

For those who've undergone cervical or lumbar laminectomy, we provide specialized physical therapy options. These therapies promote effective recovery and healing.

 

Watch The Video

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