A laminectomy is a common spinal surgery often performed to treat spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the space within the spinal canal. Laminectomy surgery relieves pressure on the spinal cord and the spinal nerves, thus giving relief from certain neurological symptoms including radiating pain, tingling, and numbness down an arm or leg.
What is a lamina?
The lamina is the back arch of a spinal vertebra that covers the spinal canal. Removing the lamina from one or more vertebrae may be recommended when conservative treatments have not been effective and spinal compression is worsening. At the same time, laminectomy surgery can address other issues that may be compressing the spinal canal including bone spurs from osteoarthritis, herniated disc material, tumors or cysts, and calcified ligament tissue.
What are the benefits of a laminectomy?
The primary benefits of this surgery are relief of chronic back or neck pain, relief from pain that radiates down an arm or leg, increased mobility, improvement of neurological function, and better quality of life for the patient. Major complications are uncommon. Laminectomy surgery has a very high success rate, and approximately 75% of patients undergoing a laminectomy are satisfied with their results.
Where in the spine are laminectomies commonly performed?
The lumbar spine is the most common location for a laminectomy, because the low back is supporting the body’s weight. This puts a lot of pressure on the low back. Osteoarthritis and other degenerative changes become common in the lumbar spine as people age. Spinal stenosis tends to be more common in the lumbar spine.
Cervical laminectomies are also commonly performed. Osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease can cause stenosis in the neck. Laminectomies in the thoracic spine (mid-back) are the least common. They are usually performed to remove a tumor or to relieve spinal stenosis.
Which conservative treatments may be tried before a laminectomy is recommended?
Many physicians and patients opt for conservative treatments before considering laminectomy surgery. Some common treatments may start with rest, lifestyle modifications, and over-the-counter pain medications to provide symptom relief and reduce swelling. Some patients may need prescription medications or muscle relaxers. Epidural steroid injections or facet joint injections may be used to treat irritated nerve roots. Physical therapy may be recommended to reduce pain and restore function. This may include strengthening and flexibility exercises, stretching, massage, and heat/cold therapy. The physician should evaluate patient progress after 6-8 weeks of conservative care.
Atlanta Brain and Spine Care
The spine specialists at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care offer patients access to some of the world’s most advanced surgical treatments and procedures. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
