Laminectomy
A laminectomy is a type of decompression surgery used to reduce pressure on nerves in the spinal column. It is most often performed when non-surgical medical care fails to relieve pain and weakness originating in the spine from bone spurs, arthritis, tumors, herniated disks, or spinal stenosis.
What Is a Laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure for alleviating pressure on the spine caused by bony growths or degenerative conditions such as arthritis or spinal stenosis. This is accomplished by removing a lamina, a bony arch that forms part of the vertebra, to open space around the spinal cord. Excessive rubbing or pressure on nerves in the spinal cord can result in numbness, pain, weakness, and even loss of function in the areas of the body serviced by those nerves (often the arms or legs). Laminectomies are typically performed only when other, non-surgical treatments are ineffective in relieving a patient’s symptoms.
Laminectomies often succeed but are considered major surgeries, requiring pre-operative testing, a hospital stay, general anesthesia, and an extended period of recovery. If you are experiencing discomfort, pain, or weakness stemming from a spinal condition, contact your medical provider. The surgical-orthopedics team at Baptist Health stands ready to help.
What Is a Laminectomy Used to Treat?
Individuals who undergo a laminectomy are typically experiencing back or neck pain, or numbness, pain, or weakness in the arms or legs. Degenerative spinal conditions have also been linked to bladder and bowel issues.
These symptoms can arise from a variety of medical conditions that affect spinal health, including:
- Bone spurs
- Fractures
- Arthritis
- Infections
- Spinal tumors
- Spinal abscesses
- Herniated disks
- Spinal stenosis
Herniated disks are one of the most common sources of spinal-cord friction. Herniation occurs when one of the soft pads that cushions the vertebrae loses its shape and slips inside the spinal column. The extended disc causes pain by rubbing against the nerves.
Another source of irritation is spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal column frequently occurring with age. This degeneration squeezes spinal tissues into ever-smaller spaces, leading to friction, pain, and a possible loss of function.
Laminectomies are sometimes performed as part of a broader surgical program in tandem with a diskectomy, foraminotomy, or spinal fusion.
Risks of Laminectomy
Laminectomies are historically safe and effective, but all surgeries carry a degree of risk. Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Injured nerves
- Internal bleeding
- Incontinence
- Headaches
- Blood clots
- Spinal fluid leakage
Not every patient undergoing this procedure will find it permanently effective. Some experience only temporary relief until underlying factors (for example, new bone spurs) reappear.
Preparing for Surgery
You will meet with your surgeon prior to the procedure. He or she will ask about your symptoms and any previous medical treatments for your condition. An imaging test—X-ray, MRI, or myelogram—will be ordered to pinpoint the surgical site. Tell your surgeon about medications, supplements, and tobacco use. Because nicotine slows healing, you will likely be asked to stop smoking before surgery.
Pre-op instructions include fasting, arranging your home for easier mobility, and identifying someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after discharge.
What Happens During a Laminectomy?
After general anesthesia, you are positioned face-down. Fluoroscopy verifies the spinal level. Key steps include:
- Incision and exposure: A small midline incision exposes the lamina.
- Verification: Imaging confirms the correct vertebra.
- Bone removal: High-speed drills and rongeurs remove the lamina and any compressive tissue.
- Stabilization (if needed): Fusion hardware may be placed.
- Closure: Muscles and skin are sutured; a drain may be inserted.
A laminectomy can take up to three hours and may be open or minimally invasive.
What Happens After a Laminectomy?
You will recover in a post-anesthesia unit and may stay one or two nights in the hospital. A friend or family member must drive you home. Follow your surgeon’s activity restrictions and attend follow-up and physical-therapy visits as directed.
What Is the Recovery Time After Surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure complexity. Minimally invasive surgery often heals in one to two months; open or fusion procedures can take up to six months. Physical therapy begins two to four weeks post-op and progresses gradually under your surgeon’s guidance.
When Should You Contact Your Doctor
If you experience worsening pain, new numbness, weakness, fever, or signs of infection, call your Baptist Health provider immediately. Baptist Health offers comprehensive orthopedic and spine care. Contact Baptist Health to schedule an appointment today!
Laminectomy FAQs
How Serious Is Laminectomy Surgery?
Laminectomy is major surgery typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments have failed. Though effective, risks include bleeding, infection, and nerve damage.
Why Might a Surgeon Recommend a Laminectomy?
Your surgeon may recommend a laminectomy if you have unrelieved back, shoulder, or neck pain, limb numbness or weakness, or bladder/bowel problems caused by spinal compression.