What Is a Hemilaminectomy?
A hemilaminectomy, sometimes referred to as laminotomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that aims to enlarge the space in the spinal canal to reduce nerve compression or pressure. This is done by removing part of a vertebra, called a lamina, that has been damaged or is damaging surrounding structures. Each vertebra contains two laminae, which are bony segments that form the rear of the vertebral arch and serve as a base for the vertebrae, covering and protecting the spinal column. A hemilaminectomy can be done to address nerve compression in all three regions of the spine – lumbar, thoracic, and cervical.
Frequently Asked Questions
During the procedure, a small incision is made along the midline of the back. Special retractors are used on the soft tissues and muscles to get a clear view of the spinal canal without cutting any of the structures open. An endoscope is inserted to allow the surgeon visualization of the area. Through this window, part of the lamina is removed, along with any other sources of compression, such as bone spurs or damaged disc material, to relieve additional symptoms. Once these materials have been removed from the affected area, the tissue, and muscles are put back in place, and the incision is stitched together.
Though less invasive than a laminectomy, hemilaminectomy surgery is often an inpatient procedure. Typically, a hemilaminectomy takes around 70–85 minutes, and patients are usually required to stay overnight and are discharged the next day following the procedure. And much like any surgery, there is a chance of complications. Your surgeon will be happy to fully discuss the risks and benefits of a hemilaminectomy.
Any sutures from your hemilaminectomy will be removed after 10 days, and you should be able to return to your normal routine after four to six weeks. Physical therapy and/or other post-surgical rehabilitation can start after six weeks, depending on your recovery.
According to studies, hemilaminectomy has an advantage over other forms of spine surgery in that it minimizes injury to muscles, ligaments, and bones in and around the spine. This often helps recovery.
The spine surgeons at Interventional Pain Spine And Orthopedics utilize minimally invasive techniques during surgery to make recovery as quick and with as little pain as possible.