What Is Laminoplasty?
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 (backside) region 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.
Who Is a Candidate for 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. This procedure is often considered for patients experiencing symptoms such as neck pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty with coordination and balance. 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 is by scheduling a consultation at SpineCare of NY.
The Laminoplasty Procedure
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 vertebral 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.
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.
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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