Definition of a Corpectomy

A corpectomy is a spinal surgery in which part of the vertebral body is removed with the aim of releasing neural compression. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a discectomy, which is the removal of an intervertebral disc, and is followed by a spinal fusion.

What Is Involved in a Corpectomy?

A corpectomy requires the surgeon to open up a large section of the spine. The back or neck is accessed anteriorly, which means the incision is made in the front of the body – usually through the neck or one side of the abdomen— because the vertebral body faces anteriorly. The vertebral body is removed, in addition to the intervertebral disc that could be contributing to neural compression. A surgeon may remove the longitudinal ligamentum flavum to further increase the size of a neural passageway. A small cage that contains morselized bone graft is inserted into the space where the vertebral body has been removed and is secured in place with rods and screws. Ideally, a solid segment of bone will form that is less likely to come into contact with nearby spinal nerves.

Minimally Invasive Alternatives

A corpectomy is a highly invasive surgery. In addition to the risks of infection and scarring, trauma to surrounding muscles and ligaments could lead to an arduous rehabilitation of up to a year. If you would like to treat neural compression caused by degenerative conditions like a bulging disc, a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spondylolisthesis, but the risks of a corpectomy are deterring you from pursuing lasting pain relief, consider contacting Laser Spine Institute. Our minimally invasive decompression procedures utilize state-of-the-art endoscopic technology. Contact us to find out more and receive a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.