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Laminectomy is a surgical process that is concerned with the back, primarily the spinal cord. Also called, decompression surgery, the procedure involves the removal of the lamina, the roof of the spinal canal. Laminectomy is essentially the surgery to enlarge the spinal canal by creating space to lessen the pressure on the spin cord or nerves. This pressure is caused by bony spurs which in simpler terms can be understood as the overgrowth of bones within the spinal canal.
Laminectomy is usually considered as the last resort. Doctors suggest this surgery when all other ways such as medicines, injections have failed or when the situations are serious.
The overgrowing bones within the spinal canal narrow the space which leads to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition is known as Spinal Stenosis.
Causes: Age is the most common cause. Aged people suffering from arthritis of the spine, shrinking of discs and swelling might experience this condition. Other causes include severe accident or injury, slipped disc, tumor or abnormality in spine growth.
Symptoms: The symptoms include pain in legs and back, pain in thighs, pain in the lower back. Even standing for long periods of time may lead to discomfort. One may experience stiffness and muscle weakness.
The laminectomy surgery can be performed either under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. The duration of the surgery is approximately two to three hours. The initial procedure includes giving anesthesia and then cleansing to avoid infection. You will also be given a breathing machine to assist you in breathing. The surgeon then makes a cut in your neck or back after placing you in a face-down position for better access. The actual process starts thereafter. The lamina (part or whole) and the bone spurs will be removed by him. The cut will then be stitched by the expert. The entire surgery will be very closely monitored.
According to the patient and the case, laminectomy also includes spinal fusion to stabilize the spine and for aminotomy to widen the passage.
The surgery includes both pre and post arrangements. Before the surgery, you need to be clear about your medical history with the doctor. The doctor should be well informed about everything and the responsibility falls on both the parties for it.
The post-surgery period is very sensitive and time-consuming. The healing may take time, but patience is the key. You will be kept under strict observation. If you experience pain in your operated area, you will be given medicines. The duration of your stay at the hospital depends on the type of surgery and your improvement. Even after coming back home, you need to refrain from activities that might engage your back or neck. Rest is advisable. If you require, take help to move or to conduct daily activities.
The stitches will be removed after 2 to 3 weeks. The complete healing procedure often takes months.
Consult the doctor immediately if you face any difficulties or discomfort such as excessive pain, swelling, breathing problems, chest pain.
Risks are involved in everything surgery. Laminectomy is a serious surgery since it involves the spinal cord and has certain risks.
The risks of the surgery include:
But the success rate is quite moderate, with patients experiencing relive from the pain after the surgery. Conducting this surgery is the only way open if all other ways have failed to work. Laminectomy is usually included in health insurance as well.
