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Articles and graphics courtesy of Medtronic Sofamor Danek, 2002.

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Lumbar Laminectomy

What is It?
Lumbar laminectomy is an operation performed on the lower spine to relieve pressure on one or more nerve roots. The term is derived from lumbar (lower spine), lamina (part of the spinal canal's bony roof), and -ectomy (removal).

Why is it Done?
Pressure on a nerve root in the lower spine, often called nerve root compression, causes back and leg pain. In this operation the surgeon reaches the lumbar spine through a small incision in the lower back. After the muscles of the spine are spread, a portion of the lamina is removed to expose the compressed nerve root(s).

Pressure is relieved by removal of the source of compression part of the herniated disc, a disc fragment, a tumor, or a rough protrusion of bone, called a bone spur.

What Happens Afterwards?
Successful recovery from lumbar laminectomy requires that you approach the operation and recovery period with confidence based on a thorough understanding of the process. Your surgeon has the training and expertise to correct physical defects by performing the operation; he and the rest of the health care team will support your recovery. Your body is able to heal the involved muscle, nerve, and bone tissues. Full recovery, however, will also depend on your having a strong, positive attitude, setting small goals for improvement, and working steadily to accomplish each goal.

The Operation

Incision

Surgery for lumbar laminectomy is performed with the patient lying on his abdomen or side. A small incision is made in the lower back.

Laminectomy

After a retractor is used to pull aside fat and muscle, the lamina is exposed. Part of it is cut away to uncover the ligamentum flavum - a ligament that supports the spinal column.

Entering the Spinal Canal

Next an opening is cut in the ligamentum flavum through which the spinal canal is reached. The compressed nerve is now seen, as is the cauda equina (bundle of nerve fibers) to which it is attached. The cause of compression may now also be identified - a bulging, ruptured or herniated disc, or perhaps a bone spur.

Sometimes a fragment of disc has moved away from the disc space to press on the nerve root as it leaves the spinal canal. This will often cause more severe symptoms. Because of its distance from the disc space, the fragment may not be seen on a myelogram, and a CT scan (computerized x-ray) may be required to locate it.

Removal of the Herniated disc

The compressed nerve is gently retracted to one side, and the herniated disc is removed. As much of the disc is taken out as is necessary to take pressure off the nerve. Some surgeons will remove all "safely available" disc material. After the cause of compression is removed, the nerve can begin to heal. The space left after removal of the disc should gradually fill with connective tissue.

Fusion and Instrumentation

Incision Closure

The operation is completed when the incision is closed in several layers. Unless absorbable suture material is used, the skin sutures (stitches) will have to be removed after the incision has healed.