Surgery
Laminectomy
A laminectomy removes part of a spinal bone to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, easing pain, numbness or weakness.
Quick answer
Laminectomy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A laminectomy removes the lamina — part of the bony arch of a vertebra — to create more space and take pressure off the spinal cord or nerves, often for spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal).
- Why it is done: It is used for spinal stenosis and other causes of nerve compression that produce leg or arm pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking, when these have not improved with non-surgical treatment.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the bone (and sometimes thickened ligament or disc) pressing on the nerves, through a cut in the back.
What it is
A laminectomy removes the lamina — part of the bony arch of a vertebra — to create more space and take pressure off the spinal cord or nerves, often for spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal).
Why it is done
It is used for spinal stenosis and other causes of nerve compression that produce leg or arm pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking, when these have not improved with non-surgical treatment.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the bone (and sometimes thickened ligament or disc) pressing on the nerves, through a cut in the back. It sometimes accompanies a spinal fusion.
Recovery
A hospital stay of a day or a few days is usual, with a gradual return to activity over weeks. Physiotherapy helps, and heavy lifting and bending are limited at first while the back heals.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include infection, bleeding, a tear of the covering around the nerves, nerve injury, and symptoms not fully resolving. Removing bone can occasionally affect spinal stability, sometimes needing fusion.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Laminectomy: frequently asked questions
Will a laminectomy cure my back pain?
It is better at relieving leg or arm pain and nerve symptoms from compression than at curing back pain itself. Your surgeon will explain what improvement is realistic for your situation.
How long is recovery after a laminectomy?
Everyday activities usually return over a few weeks, with continued improvement over months. Physiotherapy and gradually building up activity support a good recovery.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Society of British Neurological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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