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Laminectomy Definition

Laminectomy is a surgical procedure that completely removes the lamina----a bony structure that covers the nerves in the spinal column---to gain access to the nerves. A partial laminectomy is called a laminotomy.

  1. Uses

    • Laminectomy is most commonly performed as a decompression procedure for treating spinal stenosis. Laminectomy helps to reduce the pressure on the nerves.

    Spine Surgery

    • Laminectomy exposes the spinal column, which allows the surgeon to perform other spinal procedures, such as, diskectomy (removal of herniated discs) and spinal fusion.

    Procedure

    • A general anesthetic is administered to the patient. The surgeon makes an incision in the back to reveal the lamina before removing it. It can take up to 6 weeks before the patient can resume regular physical activity.

    Risks

    • Like other surgical procedures, laminectomy also has risks, such as infection, blood loss, stroke, heart attack, breathing problems and blood clots.

    Results

    • According to Mayo Clinic, laminectomy eases the symptoms of spinal stenosis in 60 to 90 percent of cases. It doesn't necessarily mean that the problems may never arise in the future.

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