Laminoplasty

Q: What is laminoplasty, and how does it relieve spinal cord compression?

Laminoplasty is a surgical procedure that relieves spinal cord compression (myelopathy) in the neck by expanding the spinal canal without removing the bone. It creates more space for the spinal cord by cutting the lamina, alleviating the pressure, and increasing the space in the canal.

Q: What conditions can cervical laminoplasty treat?

Cervical laminoplasty is used primarily to treat spinal stenosis, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), herniated discs, congenital stenosis, and cervical spondylotic myelopathy caused by arthritis.

Q: Who is considered a good candidate for laminoplasty surgery?

A good candidate for laminoplasty is someone with multi-level spinal stenosis or myelopathy affecting the neck, causing persistent pain, numbness, or weakness. It’s also for those who have not had success with non-surgical treatments. Ideal candidates usually have preserved their neck curvature and need space restored to the spinal cord.

Q: What symptoms may indicate the need for laminoplasty?

Symptoms indicating the need for laminoplasty surgery include severe, persistent neck pain, radiating arm pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities, hand weakness, loss of coordination, and balance issues.

Q: How is a laminoplasty procedure performed?

To start the laminoplasty procedure, a surgical incision is made at the back of the neck, and the muscles are moved aside to expose the lamina (the roof of the spinal canal). We will then cut into one side of the lamina and create a “hinge” by cutting through the outer layer of the bone. The lamina is then carefully opened to give the spinal cord more space. Plates and screws are then placed to secure the opening and hold the lamina in its new position.

Q: What type of anesthesia is used during laminoplasty?

General anesthesia is used during a laminoplasty. This ensures you’re completely comfortable during the procedure.

Q: How long does a laminoplasty surgery typically take?

Laminoplasty surgery can take anywhere from one to three hours. It can depend on the number of vertebrae being treated and the complexity of the surgery.

Q: What is the expected recovery time after laminoplasty?

The complete recovery after a laminoplasty typically takes 6 to 12 weeks, though healing can continue for up to a year. Most patients can return to light activities and work within a few weeks, and more strenuous activities within 6 to 8 weeks. That said, it can depend on the complexity of the surgery and how quickly your body heals.

Q: What restrictions should patients follow after laminoplasty surgery?

After your laminoplasty surgery, you’ll want to restrict activities, especially strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, for up to 6 weeks. You will also need to limit how much you bend your neck, avoid overhead reaching, and don’t immerse your incisions in water until they have fully healed.

Q: What are the potential benefits of laminoplasty compared to other spine surgeries?

The main potential benefit of laminoplasty compared to traditional procedures is that it preserves the mobility of the spine, allowing you to move more freely after your recovery. It also has less of a risk of post-surgical instability, lower overall complication rates, and a faster return to daily activities.

A compressed spinal cord and nerves can lead to a host of annoying and uncomfortable symptoms like pain, numbness, stiffness, and tingling. If untreated, this compression can lead to serious complications like paralysis. SpineCare of NY offers laminoplasty to relieve this pressure, prevent paralysis, and lessen or eradicate associated symptoms.

What Cervical Spine Surgery?

Laminoplasty is a surgical procedure that treats spinal cord compression in the neck and sometimes the lower back. A laminoplasty aims at removing a portion of the lamina and securing the spine with metal hinges or plates. Laminae are the bones in the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine. The purpose of this procedure is to reduce pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, therefore easing and preventing the worsening of symptoms, which can include pain, numbness in your limbs, a tingling sensation, and trouble walking.

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Who Is a Candidate for Cervical Laminoplasty?

The ideal candidate for laminoplasty is typically an individual suffering from conditions like cervical spinal stenosis or myelopathy that cause compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots in the neck, leading to bone spurs and herniated discs. This cervical spine procedure is often considered for patients experiencing symptoms such as neck pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty with coordination and balance from cervical stenosis. Laminoplasty is best for those who have not found relief with non-surgical or minimally invasive methods like medication or physical therapy. Ideal candidates are generally in good overall health, allowing for effective spinal cord decompression to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. The best way to determine your candidacy for this procedure or another, such as an anterior cervical discectomy, is by scheduling a consultation at SpineCare of NY.

What Our Patients Are Saying

We are dedicated to delivering expert and compassionate care at SpineCare of NY. Check out our reviews to hear the stories of our incredible patients.

Great experience. Doctor Hughes is an extraordinary doctor. After my surgery, I am a new person. All staff are excellent and caring. Nurses are the best, they treated me like a queen. I am truly grateful!

Doris O.

The entire staff of NY Spine Care are outstanding, very responsive and always willing to listen and offer solutions. I am not sure I can add much to Dr. Camissa’s already stellar reputation, however my experience was simply amazing. I had work done on both my cervical and lumbar and Dr. Camissa was extremely forthright about the procedure, risks, and recovery which prepared me for any eventuality. Both my surgeries were a success and I am forever indebted to Dr. Cammisa and his staff.

Nicholas T.

Dr. Hughes is an amazing spinal surgeon. He does a great physical examination along with understanding the imaging. My operation for spinal stenosis went well and I started walking the next morning and came home the day after. The office is very responsive even though VERY busy. I went from a wreck to a mobile oldster in a vet short time.

David R.

The Cervical Laminoplasty Surgery

You will be given general anesthesia during your laminoplasty procedure, allowing you to remain asleep and comfortable while your surgeon operates. Your surgeon will begin by making an incision above the affected lamina on the back of your neck. All tissue, muscle, and ligaments will be moved out of the way of your spine, allowing your surgeon direct, precise, and clear access to the lamina bone. Then, a medium-depth cut will be made on one side of the lamina bone, while the other side will be cut all the way through. The lamina will then be pulled slightly away from the spinal cord, where it will hinge at one side. This allows more space in the spinal canal, relieving pressure on the spinal cord. The new, wider opening will then be secured with a metal plate or hinge and screws. Each vertebral level that was operated on will get its own plate. To complete your laminoplasty, your surgeon will close your incision with sutures.

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Laminoplasty Results and Recovery

Laminoplasty requires the use of general anesthesia and typically takes one to three hours to complete. This procedure does require a hospital stay of up to three days, which is crucial for monitoring your vitals immediately after surgery. You may experience significant discomfort during the first couple weeks of your recovery, but this should subside as time passes. You will have a limited range of neck motion for several weeks and must wear a special collar to further limit movement and protect your neck. For the first six weeks of your recovery, you will need to avoid strenuous exercise and excessive bending, lifting, or twisting. Getting plenty of rest and eating healthy will aid in recovery. Your surgeon will provide you with a list of specific activities to avoid as well as instructions for optimal healing and recovery, including any required medications, follow-up appointments, and specific care instructions.

Laminoplasty FAQs

What is laminoplasty, and how does it relieve spinal cord compression?

What conditions can cervical laminoplasty treat?

Who is considered a good candidate for laminoplasty surgery?

What symptoms may indicate the need for laminoplasty?

How is a laminoplasty procedure performed?

What type of anesthesia is used during laminoplasty?

How long does a laminoplasty surgery typically take?

What is the expected recovery time after laminoplasty?

What restrictions should patients follow after laminoplasty surgery?

What are the potential benefits of laminoplasty compared to other spine surgeries?

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Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about laminoplasty and if this procedure can help you experience relief, schedule a consultation with one of our highly regarded physicians at SpineCare of NY by filling out an online contact form today. We are affiliated with HSS, the number one orthopedic hospital in the United States, and are dedicated to providing the most up-to-date surgical techniques so we can get it right the first time.

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