Cervical Laminectomy

Cervical Laminectomy is a surgical procedure for removing bone at the neck (cervical spine region) to relieve pressure on spinal serves. An orthopedic surgeon may also opt for Cervical Laminectomy to help relieve the symptoms of narrowed spinal canal or spinal stenosis.

The removal or cutting of the lamina (roof) of the vertebra bones provides space to nerves from spine.

When Patients Undergo Cervical Laminectomy?
The spinal canal may become narrowed due to degeneration of the facet joints or intervertebral discs. Sometimes, the facet joints can become bulkier and consume more space available for nerve roots. Osteophytes are also responsible for narrowing of the spinal canal.

Symptoms indicating Cervical Laminectomy include the following.

  • Narrowing of the spinal canal
  • Pressure of the spinal nerves & spinal cords
  • Neck pain
  • Tingling sensation
  • Numbness
  • Weakness extending to the shoulders, arms, hands, bowel, and bladder impairment.

The Cervical Laminectomy helps relieve pressure on spinal nerves as lamina is removed. The surgeon only recommends to a patient Cervical Laminectomy after a detailed medical evaluation including X-ray, CT, and MRI. The surgical treatment is only opted after all conservative treatment options have been exercised.

The option of Spinal Fusion may also be opted along with cervical laminectomy, placing bone graft or bone graft substitute between two affected vertebrae. This bone graft acts as a medium for binding two vertebral bones. It grows as a single vertebra, stabilizing the spine and maintain normal disc height.

Recovery Team after Cervical Laminectomy procedure
Cervical laminectomy is a post-operative recovery or exercise plan recommended by the physician. This plan helps you quickly return to your normal life activities. Some patients show early signs of recovery while it may take more time. Time of patient’s stay also depends on the type of treatment plan opted. A surgeon may also choose to perform a surgery on an outpatient in which case the patient would be able to wake up and walk by day end. Recovery plan also differs with the type of activity a patient wants to perform and their body’s healing status.

Get in touch with your orthopedic surgeon at Core Orthopedics to know the expected recovery time and follow instructions for optimized healing.