Lumbar Laminectomy

Laminectomy

A lumbar laminectomy is a decompression surgery that removes part or all of the lamina, bone spurs, possible herniated disc, and arthritic ligaments.

The goal of the surgery is to enlarge the spinal canal, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and exiting nerves. A lumbar laminectomy is only considered once non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted.

Pinched or compressed nerves are common, affecting around 85 out of 100,000 people yearly. Continue reading to see how DISC can help.

What to Expect During Surgery

A lumbar laminectomy is done under general anesthesia, so the patient will be unconscious throughout the procedure.

As a minimally invasive procedure, the surgery will begin with a small incision over the affected vertebrae in the lower back. A metal dilator is first inserted under fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) into the muscles and tissue down to the affected spinal level. Then a series of metal cannulas are placed on the dilator gently spreading the muscles. The dilator is then removed and a surgical portal is established by which your spine surgeon will perform their laminectomy.

The surgeon will use medical instruments to remove any bone spurs or a disc and the smallest amount of the lamina possible.

In the event you have a bulging disc the surgeon will sparingly decompress the disc relieving pressure on the spinal cord. In cases of degenerative disc disease or spinal instability, the surgeon will perform the laminectomy, remove the damaged disc and replace it with a bone graft, screws and rods, and a spinal fusion will occur.

The incision will then be closed off with stitches or surgical staples.