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
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.
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
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.