Laminectomy

Overview

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or spinal tumors. It involves the removal of part or all of the lamina, a portion of the vertebra that covers the spinal canal. This procedure is often recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief from pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Laminectomy

• Chronic lower back pain or neck pain.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or buttocks.
• Weakness in the muscles of the arms or legs.
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
• Pain radiating down one or both legs (sciatica).
• Loss of bowel or bladder control in severe cases.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially when they interfere with your daily activities or mobility, it may be time to consult with a spinal specialist.

When to See a Consultant

You should consider seeing a consultant, such as spinal neurosurgeon Mr. Irfan Malik, if:

• Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections have failed to relieve your symptoms.
• Your pain is progressively worsening and affecting your quality of life.
• You experience weakness or loss of sensation in your limbs.
• You develop severe symptoms like loss of bowel or bladder control, which may indicate a medical emergency.

Early consultation can lead to faster treatment and prevent further damage to the spinal cord or nerves.

Causes of Laminectomy

Laminectomy is typically performed to address spinal cord compression caused by:

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal due to bone overgrowth or thickened ligaments, commonly caused by aging or arthritis.
• Herniated Disc: A bulging or ruptured disc can press on the spinal nerves, causing pain and nerve-related symptoms.
• Spinal Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in the spine can compress the spinal cord or nerves, requiring removal to alleviate pressure.
• Injury or Trauma: Damage to the spine from accidents or falls can result in compression that requires surgical intervention.
• Bone Spurs: Overgrowth of bone (osteophytes) due to arthritis can narrow the spinal canal, leading to nerve compression.