Cervical Laminoplasty
Some patients may be best treated with a posterior approach. Posterior cervical approaches may be indicated in patients with spinal cord compression affecting multiple levels, a preserved lordotic curvature, and a lack of large anterior herniated discs or bone spurs. Patients with congenital cervical stenosis may also be candidates for such an approach.
Posterior Cervical Laminoplasty Surgery
The surgery involves making a cut in the back of the neck with the patient under anesthesia laying face down on the operating table. The patient head is often put in surgical pins to keep the neck from moving. The muscles of the back of the neck are detached from the bones of neck, called the lamina. The spinal laminae are then cut from their attachment to the facet joints on one side. A partial thickness cut is made on the other side. The lamina is then lifted off of the spinal cord, opening the spinal canal and removing pressure. The spinal lamina is then reattached to the facet bone with a bone graft and a tiny titanium mini-plate. This reconstructs with spinal bones without losing motion. Since this surgery is usually done at multiple levels at the same time, preserving motion is a significant advantage. This surgery Cervical Laminoplasty may have advantages over simple laminectomy, including less neck pain and a reduced chance of the spine becoming weak, unstable, and bent over.
Posterior Cervical Fusion
Some patients may be better served with a posterior approach but may require a fusion. A posterior cervical fusion may be required in cases with an unstable spine, prior surgery, or serious injury such as fracture. In such cases, the initial approach is similar to posterior cervical laminoplasty. Complete laminectomy is often performed. After this, screws are applied to the spinal facets. A connecting rod is applied. A bone graft is applied to the joints, for fusion. This approach for posterior cervical fusion surgery stabilizes the spine quite well and can be used to treat multiple levels easily.
Consult A Neurosurgeon with a High Laminoplasty Success Rate
The Houston neurosurgeons at the Texas Spine and Neurosurgery Center will determine which posterior cervical fusion surgery approach is best for you and give the highest success rate and best long-term results. Schedule a consultation today with one of our highly skilled neck pain specialists – (281) 313-0031.
Additional neck pain treatment options include, but are not limited to, the following: