Laminectomy – Overview

Transcript

A laminectomy is a spinal surgical procedure where a surgeon removes bone from the back of the spine to create extra space for nerves. This piece of bone that is removed is called the lamina. The lamina is like a roof or outer covering of the spine. It is a deep structure in the back and is protected by important muscles. For the surgeon to get to the lamina, they need to pass through important muscles using either a tube, a retractor or an endoscope. The surgeon can then remove the entire lamina or a part of the lamina to accomplish the goals necessary for the procedure. The removal of the lamina is done using certain metal instruments, burrs, drills, and ultrasounds. All of these devices accomplish the same thing. They remove bone. Once the lamina is removed, it releases pressure on spinal nerves.