Laminectomy

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of a vertebra, typically to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or a nerve branching from the spinal cord.

Overview

Laminectomy is most commonly performed to treat conditions that cause painful pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, including spinal stenosis, herniated disc, and tumors. The procedure involves removing the back part of the affected vertebra (lamina) to create space and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This can alleviate symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness that radiate into the arms or legs.

Indications for Laminectomy

Laminectomy is generally indicated when conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections have failed to alleviate symptoms, and when the patient experiences severe or worsening pain, weakness or numbness that hinders their normal activities, or bowel or bladder dysfunction. Conditions that might require a laminectomy include:

• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to aging and wear-and-tear on the spine.
• Herniated disc: The soft inner gel of a spinal disc leaks out, or herniates, causing nerve compression.
• Tumors: Abnormal growths that can form within the spinal cord, within the meninges (the membranes that cover the spinal cord), or in the space between the spinal cord and vertebrae.
• Spinal injuries: Acute injuries to the spine, such as from an accident, can cause fragments of the vertebrae to press into the spinal cord, resulting in inflammation, swelling, or bleeding.

Procedure

A laminectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the middle of the back or neck, over the affected vertebrae. The skin, muscles, and ligaments are moved to the side, and then the surgeon removes the lamina. If a herniated disc is causing compression, it may also be removed during the surgery (a procedure called a discectomy). Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed with stitches or surgical staples.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, a laminectomy carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury, spinal fluid leak, instability of the spine, and persistent symptoms despite surgery. In some cases, additional surgery may be needed.

Recovery

Recovery after laminectomy varies depending on the specific procedure and the individual's overall health. Physical therapy is typically part of the recovery process to help strengthen the spine and improve flexibility. Most people experience a significant reduction in symptoms, especially those related to nerve compression, such as pain and weakness in the limbs.

See Also

• Spinal Stenosis
• Herniated Disc
• Spinal Cord Tumor
• Spine Surgery

References

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laminectomy/about/pac-20394533
• https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/guide/laminectomy-surgery
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247500
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/laminectomy

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