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Laminectomy

Overview

Laminectomy is a type of spine surgery performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The lamina is a small part of the spinal bone that covers the back of the spinal canal. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the lamina to create more space to reduce pressure. It is most often done to treat spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal).

Laminectomy is usually recommended when:

  • You have spinal stenosis causing persistent back or leg pain, weakness, or numbness.
  • Nerve compression, leading to pain that does not improve with medicines, physiotherapy, or injections.
  • There is a need to combine it with other spine surgeries, such as spinal fixation or fusion to stabilise the spine and improve results.

  • An orthopaedic spine surgeon or neurosurgeon performs this surgical procedure.
  • It is carried out under general anaesthesia (you are asleep during the operation).
  • A cut is made in the back to reach the spine.
  • Using special instruments, the surgeon carefully removes the lamina to open up the spinal canal.
  • This relieves the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, helping reduce pain, numbness, and weakness.

The surgery usually lasts 1–3 hours, depending on the number of spinal levels treated and whether it is combined with other procedures.

Before surgery, patients may need:

  • Spine X-ray to check bone alignment and the spinal curvature.
  • Dynamic X-ray (bending forward and backward) to see if there is any abnormal spine movement.
  • Spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the spinal cord, nerves, and level of compression.
  • General health check-up including blood tests and anaesthesia clearance.

While laminectomy is generally safe, some risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Surgical site infection
  • Damage to spinal nerves (rare)
  • Spinal fluid leak
  • Blood clots in the legs
  • Residual or recurring symptoms if other areas become compressed later

  • Hospital stay in hospital for 1-3 days.
  • Painkillers are given to manage surgical site pain.
  • Patients are encouraged to start walking soon after surgery.
  • Gentle exercises help regain strength, confidence, flexibility, and confidence in movement.
  • Most patients notice relief of symptoms soon after surgery, but full recovery may take a few weeks to a few months depending on age, overall health, and extent of surgery.

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.