Laminotomy – Procedure and Benefits

A laminotomy is a type of spinal surgery that involves the partial removal of a lamina (the lamina is the part of a vertebra that helps create a bony arch to protect the spinal cord). A number of spinal conditions can cause the laminae to develop bone spurs that can intrude on the spinal canal, which can cause nerve impingement and subsequent pain and discomfort. Or, sometimes nerve compression caused by another part of the vertebra or by an intervertebral disc can be eased by removing part of the lamina. A laminotomy serves to reduce pressure being placed on nerve roots and/or the spinal cord, allowing many patients to resume a mostly symptom-free life.

Procedure

Laser Spine Institute takes an endoscopic approach to this procedure, which requires only IV sedation and local anesthesia. Once these have been administered, the Laser Spine Institute surgeon begins the laminotomy by making a small incision through which a series of tubes, each slightly larger than the last, are inserted. Surgical tools are then inserted through the tube, allowing the surgeon to gently remove a portion of the vertebra and decompress nerves in the spinal canal.

Benefits

Thanks to Laser Spine Institute’s endoscopic approach to a laminotomy procedure, many patients experience relief from their sometimes debilitating conditions without the risk and recovery time associated with open back surgery. Laser Spine Institute’s procedure also offers the following benefits to patients:

• Minimal scar tissue
• Less risk for infection
• No required hospital stay
• Local anesthesia and IV sedation instead of general anesthesia

Patients who experience any number of spinal conditions affecting the laminae can reap the benefits of a laminotomy. These conditions include various types of arthritis, bulging and herniated discs, spinal stenosis and bone spurs.  Many patients who have been diagnosed with these spinal conditions can receive relief from uncomfortable symptoms after a laminotomy procedure performed by Laser Spine Institute. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a complimentary CT scan or MRI review and to learn more about laminotomies.