Cervical stenosis can place pressure on the spinal cord. If most of the compression is in the back, the cervical stenosis can be treated with both a posterior cervical laminectomy and an anterior cervical laminectomy. The objective of this procedure is to remove the lamina (and spinous process) to give the spinal cord more room.
The Procedure
The skin incision is in the midline of the back of the neck and is about 3 to 4 inches long. The para-spinal muscles are then elevated from multiple levels.
A high speed burr can be used to make a trough in the lamina on both sides right before it joins the facet joint. The lamina with the spinous process can then be removed as one piece (like a lobster tail). Removal of the lamina and spinous process allows the spinal cord to float backwards and gives it more room.
After Surgery
Post-surgical pain is usually controlled with intravenous pain medication for the first day, followed by oral pain medication. On average, patients are discharged from the hospital two to three days following surgery. Most patients are encouraged to walk as soon as possible, often on the day of surgery.
A soft collar may be prescribed for comfort in patients in whom a fusion has not been performed. In patients with fusion, however, a firm cervical collar may be prescribed for up to 6 weeks following the surgery.
Call today to schedule your consultation for a posterior or anterior cervical laminectomy in Houston!