Laminotomy and Laminectomy
If you’ve been having chronic neck or back pain, you know how much it affects your day-to-day life. The doctors at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine can help you end the pain and discomfort. We have board-certified surgeons who are experts in minimally invasive procedures for spinal conditions.
What are minimally invasive procedures for the spine?
Laminotomy and laminectomy are examples of minimally invasive procedures for spine conditions. Both procedures help in widening the opening around the spinal cord and nerves, which can relieve the pressure and the pain.
Both laminotomy and laminectomy involve accessing the lamina, which is the bony plate that covers the spinal canal.
Laminotomy is the partial removal of the lamina while laminectomy is the total removal of the bone.
Can you benefit from it?
Laminotomy or laminectomy may be recommended by your doctor if you are experiencing pain as a result of:
- Sciatica
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Nerve compression as a result of pinched nerves, bone spurs, bulging or herniated discs, or spine arthritis
What can you expect before and during the procedure?
Before the surgery, our specialists will review your medical history, including the medications that you’re taking. If you’re taking medicines that are thinning your blood, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, you may be asked to stop taking them temporarily.
You will be given specific instructions on what to do and what not days before surgery.
Both procedures are done in the hospital, under general anesthesia. Both procedures are also done on a posterior approach, which means they’re done while you are lying face down.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your surgeon will create a small incision near the affected site. This will serve as the entry point. Then, using a retractor, your surgeon will move the skin, muscles, and fat on the side.
And depending on the procedure you’re getting, the surgeon will remove part or whole of the lamina. If your pain is caused by a pinched nerve, the procedure may also involve removing part or all of the discs that pinch the nerve.
The surgeon will then close the incision or may perform other procedures (depending on your case) before doing so.
Curious if laminotomy or laminectomy can benefit you? Set an appointment with us for a consultation. We want to help you feel better faster! Call South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine at (772) 288-2400 to request a same day or next day appointment.