Laminectomy

Laminectomy surgery relieves pressure on spinal nerves by removing part of the vertebra. If you have a problem like spinal stenosis, visit Amanda Carpenter, MD, and Duncan Carpenter, MD, at North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates in Ridgewood, New Jersey, for an expert assessment. They have considerable experience performing laminectomies using the least invasive methods. Call North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates today or book an appointment online to see if you’re a good candidate for laminectomy.

What is a laminectomy?

Laminectomy spine surgery removes a small section of bone called the lamina. 

The lamina is part of the vertebra (the bones of your spine), forming a protective roof over the spinal cord and nerves. Removing it helps take pressure off the nerves, relieving pain, numbness, and weakness.

Why would someone need a laminectomy?

You might need a laminectomy if you have radiculopathy. This is where a problem in your spine means there isn’t enough room for your nerves, and they come under pressure.

This pressure can cause back or neck pain, leg or arm pain, and other nerve-related problems. If nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections don’t help, a laminectomy may be the next step.

What conditions does laminectomy treat?

North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates uses laminectomy to treat:

• Spinal stenosis (spinal canal narrowing)
• Herniated discs
• Bone spurs from arthritis
• Tumors or other growths in the spine
• Pinched nerves causing pain or weakness

Your neurosurgeon will decide if this surgery is right for your specific condition.

How is laminectomy surgery performed?

You receive a general anesthetic for a laminectomy, so you’re asleep and pain-free. Your North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates surgeon makes a small incision over the affected area of the spine and removes part or all of the lamina. This creates more space for the spinal cord and nerves. 

Sometimes, they also remove a herniated disc or bone spurs. If needed, your surgeon stabilizes the spine by fusing the vertebrae. Where possible, they use minimally invasive approaches, including state-of-the-art robotic-assisted spine surgery.

What is recovery like after laminectomy?

Most patients stay in the hospital for a day or two after laminectomy, although recovery depends on your overall health and how much surgery you have. 

You’ll likely need physical therapy and should avoid heavy lifting for several weeks. Many patients feel relief from nerve pain shortly after surgery, but full recovery could take a few months.

Does laminectomy pose any risks?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved in laminectomy, such as infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. In rare cases, pain can return over time. Choosing an experienced neurosurgeon helps reduce these risks and improve outcomes.

North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates specializes in spine care, reviewing your symptoms, imaging, and overall health to help decide if laminectomy is the right choice for you. Call today to arrange a consultation or book an appointment online.