
Thoracic Laminectomy
Thoracic laminectomy, which is also known as an open decompression, is a minimally invasive spine surgery procedure in which the portion of the bone or lamina causing pressure on the nerve roots is removed.
Who needs Thoracic Laminectomy?
Thoracic Laminectomy is indicated in spinal conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs that cause narrowing of the spinal canal leading to nerve compression.
Our board-certified spine specialists recommend Thoracic Laminectomy if the patient shows the following symptoms:
- Pain that travels around the body and into one or both legs.
- Severe neck pain.
- Numbness or tingling in areas of one or both legs.
- Muscle weakness in certain muscles of one or both legs.
- Increased reflexes in one or both legs that can cause spasticity in the legs.
- This technique is usually performed in patients with degenerative changes in the spine that occurs with the aging process and enlargement of the facet joints.
How is Thoracic Laminectomy Performed?
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After our spine specialists thoroughly study the patient’s history and perform various diagnostics, they schedule a Thoracic Laminectomy.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
- Our specialists start the laminectomy by making a small incision at the level of the surgery. The skin and the muscles are gently opened, and the bone structure at the back of the spine is revealed.
- The specialists commence the procedure and remove the lamina. Once the lamia has been removed, compression on the spinal nerves is relieved. Our specialists may also perform a short foraminotomy, which is a procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
- The specialists also enlarge the foramina or the small holes through which the nerves exit the spinal canal. And may also remove parts of some bone from the spinal joint, which is known as a facet joint. This joint is sometimes involved with compression of the nerves.
- After the procedure is finished, the specialists may leave the “roof” of the spinal canal open; the lamina does not need to be replaced by any plate or bone graft.
- In special cases, our specialists perform a spinal fusion to ensure the stability of the spinal column.
- This is performed in cases where the patient’s spinal column is weak due to age or disease or lifestyle and has gone through wear and tear.
- The specialists may use metallic plates and special screws to infuse two or more vertebrae together to facilitate speedy healing.
- Finally, the specialists close off the incision layer by layer using a special material that helps to heal and is later dissolved by the body.
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FAQ’S
Does Lamina Grow Back After Laminectomy?
- During a laminectomy, your surgeon will probably remove the entire lamia to allow more room for spinal cord nerves.
- The lamia does not grow back; however, scar tissue grows on the bone protecting the spinal nerves.
What is Thoracic Laminectomy Recovery Time?
- After a successful thoracic laminectomy, you may experience complete relief from your back and leg pain symptoms, or in the following day or two.
- Most patients completely recover from a thoracic laminectomy in a period of three to six weeks with physical therapy.
How Long Do You Stay in Hospital After a Laminectomy?
- You may be required to stay in the medical center for one to four days; during this time, your surgeon will closely monitor you for any signs of complications.