Laminectomy

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Laminectomy

A laminectomy surgery is a common type of spine surgery. During the procedure, a spine surgeon removes a small section of bone (called the lamina) from the lower spine. This is often used in the lower spine (lumbar laminectomy) but may also be needed in the neck (cervical laminectomy) or the middle of the back (thoracic laminectomy).

The lamina (described as “bony arches”) are bone pieces that stick out from back of the spine. Their removal during surgery releases pressure from compressed nerves or the spinal cord which can lead to improved quality of life and function.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is laminectomy surgery?

The surgery usually takes around two hours but can take longer if it is part of a more complex procedure or if many levels need to be addressed.

Is laminectomy surgery the same as a diskectomy?

Laminectomy (removal of lamina bone) and diskectomy (removing damaged disk tissue) are both types of spinal decompression surgery. Your provider may perform a diskectomy or other techniques (such as joining two vertebrae, called spinal fusion) during a laminectomy procedure.

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