A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina. This is typically done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. While a laminectomy is considered a major surgery, it is generally safe and effective in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life for patients.
During the procedure, the patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. The surgeon then makes an incision in the back over the affected area and carefully removes the lamina to access the spinal cord or nerves. This allows the surgeon to decompress the affected area and alleviate any pressure that may be causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness.
Recovery from a laminectomy can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. In general, patients can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days following the procedure and will need to take it easy for several weeks to allow for proper healing. Physical therapy may be recommended to help regain strength and flexibility in the back and legs.
Overall, while a laminectomy is a major surgery, it is often necessary and can provide significant relief for patients suffering from spinal cord or nerve compression. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the best course of action for your specific condition.
Is a laminectomy and discectomy the same thing?
Generally speaking, you need a discectomy if the problem is related to the vertebral discs, and a laminectomy if you have problems with the back of the vertebrae. Both surgeries receive pressure on nerves and the spinal cord, but they address different structures.
Can a laminectomy and discectomy be done at the same time?
The laminectomy surgery may be a part of the microdiscectomy surgery while removal of the herniated disc or be done to increase the space of the canal. During surgery, the surgeon gives an incision at the back at a level determined preoperatively. The muscles and tissues are carefully separated.
What is the downside of laminectomy?
As with any surgery, the risks of infection, sepsis, and severe bleeding may occur during or after open lumbar laminectomy surgery. It is advised to discuss the expected surgical outcome and the potential complications with the doctor.
What is the success rate of a laminectomy and discectomy?
A laminectomy has a success rate of 90%. Approximately 75% of people who undergo the surgery are satisfied with the results.
What are the signs your spine injury is serious?
– Extreme back pain or pressure in the neck, head or back.
– Weakness, incoordination or loss of control in any part of the body.
– Numbness, tingling or loss of feeling in the hands, fingers, feet or toes.
– Loss of bladder or bowel control.
– Trouble with balance and walking.
– Trouble breathing after injury.
What area of the spinal cord is most commonly injured?
The most common sites of injury are the cervical and thoracic areas. SCI is a common cause of lifelong (permanent) disability and death in children and adults. The spine has 33 vertebrae.
What happens after a spinal cord injury?
An injury higher on the spinal cord can cause paralysis in most of the body and affect all limbs (tetraplegia or quadriplegia). An injury that occurs lower down the spinal cord may only affect a person’s lower body and legs (paraplegia).
What are the 2 main commonly injured areas of the spine?
The most common sites of injury are the cervical and thoracic areas. SCI is a common cause of lifelong (permanent) disability and death in children and adults. The spine has 33 vertebrae.
How can spinal cord injury affect a person’s life?
Symptoms may include partial or complete loss of sensory function or motor control of arms, legs and/or body. The most severe spinal cord injury affects the systems that regulate bowel or bladder control, breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. Most people with spinal cord injury experience chronic pain.
