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Laminotomy and Laminectomy

If you’ve been suffering from chronic neck and back pain, you may benefit from minimally invasive procedures performed by our specialists at Ozark Orthopaedics. The spine specialists at Ozark Orthopaedics Spine Center offer laminotomy and laminectomy.

About Laminotomy and Laminectomy

Laminotomy and laminectomy are two different spinal decompression procedures that involve accessing the lamina. The lamina is the bony plate that covers the spinal canal. Laminotomy refers to the partial removal of the lamina while laminectomy is the total removal of the bone.

Why is it done

The main goal of performing these procedures is to create space around the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.

In some cases, laminotomy or laminectomy is done because the lamina compresses the nerve. There are also cases when parts of the lamina are removed in order to gain access to other parts of the spine. If you have sciatica, lumbar radiculopathy, or nerve compression, you may benefit from these minimally-invasive procedures.

What you can expect before and during the procedure

To determine if you can benefit from either of the procedures, our specialists will perform a thorough assessment of you.

If you are a candidate for either surgery, you will be advised to avoid taking blood-thinning medications before surgery. This includes ibuprofen, naproxen, and warfarin. You’ll also be asked to not eat or drink the night before your surgery.

During laminotomy or laminectomy

Both procedures are done using a posterior approach, which means you will be lying face down for the whole duration of the procedure. They are also done while you’re under general anesthesia.

The surgeon will start by making an entry point incision near the affected site. Once the incision is done, your surgeon will use a retractor to move the skin, fat, and muscles to the side.

Next, the surgeon will perform the needed procedure. Aside from front removing part or whole of the lamina, your surgeon may also remove part or all of the discs that cause the pinched nerve. Depending on your case, the doctor may then close the incision or perform other procedures before closing it.

Can you benefit from it?

If you have a debilitating spine condition that greatly affects your quality of life, you may benefit from either laminotomy or laminectomy. Our specialists can take a look at your case and recommend the most suitable treatment.

Are you ready to find relief for your lower back pain and improve your quality of life? You may call us at (479) 521-2752 to request an appointment or click the button below.