What is Laminoplasty?

Laminoplasty is a procedure performed to increase the width of the spinal canal for the purpose of relieving pressure on the spinal cord. It is most commonly done to treat spinal stenosis, a condition characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal. Laminoplasties are performed by experienced spinal surgeons on patients who are fully anesthetized. The procedure usually takes around two hours, although sometimes complications cause the surgery to run longer.

In a laminoplasty, the surgeon turns an area of the vertebra known as the lamina into what is essentially a little door. This is done by cutting one side of the lamina away from the vertebra, and either scoring the other side or cutting it away as well. This creates a flap of bone which can be hinged outward to make more room in the spinal canal. Metal clips are used to hold the door open, leaving the spinal canal permanently widened while keeping protection of the spinal cord intact by leaving the lamina intact. Typically, several vertebrae are treated in this way during a laminoplasty.

An alternative to this procedure is a laminectomy, in which the lamina of the bone is taken out entirely. Preference for one surgery or the other is usually based on the surgeon's experience and the specifics of the case. A surgeon may review both options with the patient if they can both be considered viable choices so that the patient has an opportunity to choose which procedure she or he would like to undergo.

There are risks to a laminoplasty, as with any surgical procedure. Being under general anesthesia creates a number of risks of complications which can occur on the operating table, and after anesthesia, the patient is at risk of lung problems. Patients are also at risk of infection and nerve damage which can occur even after the most carefully performed surgery. People can decrease their risk of complications by working with a highly experienced surgeon in a reputable surgical facility.

Before undergoing laminoplasty, a patient should talk with the surgeon about why the procedure is being performed, what will happen during the surgery, and what to expect after surgery. It is advisable to go over recovery and aftercare before surgery so that the patient can prepare. Being aware of aftercare needs can also be important for friends and family members who may help the patient during laminoplasty recovery, as well as employers who need to make accommodations for employees recovering from surgery.