Laminectomy

A laminectomy is a type of spinal decompression surgery in which a surgeon removes part or all of the lamina — the back part of a vertebra that covers the spinal canal.

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the lamina, the back part of a vertebra, to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves. It is often performed for spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or spinal cord compression.

1. Anesthesia
   • General anesthesia is used (you’re fully asleep).
2. Positioning
   • Patient lies face down on a special surgical table.
3. Incision
   • A midline incision is made over the affected spinal level (e.g., lumbar, thoracic, or cervical spine).
   • Muscles are gently moved aside to expose the vertebrae.
4. Lamina Removal
   • The lamina (bony arch) is removed from one or more vertebrae.
   • In some cases, the ligamentum flavum or bone spurs are also removed.
5. Additional Procedures (if needed)
   • Discectomy (removal of a herniated disc)
   • Foraminotomy (widening the nerve root exit holes)
   • Spinal fusion (to stabilize the spine if instability is present)
6. Closure
   • Muscles and soft tissues are repositioned.
   • Incision is closed with sutures or staples.