Spinal pain in the lower back can range from annoying to disabling. Depending on the cause, various treatments may be prescribed to combat the problem, and a lumbar laminectomy is one of these options.
What is a lumbar laminectomy?
The spinal column is a collection of bones extending from the neck down through the lower back (lumbar region). These bones help protect the spinal cord — a long fragile tube of tissue packed with nerves needed to convey messages between the brain and body.
A vertebra is a bony section of the spinal column, and the rear portion of that bone is referred to as the lamina. There are medical conditions in which the removal of the lamina is recommended, and this procedure is known as a lumbar laminectomy.
What is the purpose of the procedure?
Surgeons remove the lamina to create more space within the spinal canal — the area in which the spinal cord is located. This procedure is also referred to as decompression surgery because it relieves pressure upon the spinal cord.
When is a lumbar laminectomy performed?
There are cases in which a patient has developed bone spurs upon the surface of the bony lamina. These hard projections may apply painful pressure against the delicate spinal cord. Laminal bone spurs may occur due to:
- Spinal arthritis
- Normal aging
Another cause of spinal pain may be a herniated disk. These cushions are located between the vertebrae and can become damaged or repositioned, pressing the spinal cord with painful results.
Usually, alternative treatments are prescribed before performing this surgery. Such treatments may include:
- Injections
- Medication
- Physical Therapy
How does an orthopedic surgeon perform the surgery?
- The patient may be put to sleep under general anesthesia, or spinal anesthesia may be used to numb the body from the waist down.
- Medical staff will cleanse the skin over the vertebra using an antiseptic solution.
- After making an incision, the surgeon will spread apart muscles covering the vertebra.
- The surgeon will then remove the bony lamina to relieve pressure upon nearby nerves.
- The incision will be cleanly closed with surgical staples or stitches.
- A sterile dressing or bandage will be placed over the incision.
If you are experiencing lower back pain and need orthopedic care, contact HROSM to schedule an appointment with one of our outstanding orthopedic specialists!
