A spine laminectomy is a decompression surgery that relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves by removing part of the vertebral bone called the lamina.

Laminectomy is a spinal surgery that removes a portion of the vertebral bone known as the lamina. The lamina is the back part of the vertebra that covers the spinal canal. This procedure is also known as decompression surgery because it enlarges the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerves.

The most common cause of spinal compression is bony overgrowth within the spinal canal. These growths reduce space for the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness that can radiate into the arms or legs. A spine laminectomy can help relieve this pressure and improve function.

Candidacy

Dr. Subramanian may recommend a spine laminectomy for patients who:

• Have not improved with conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy
• Experience muscle weakness or numbness that affects standing or walking
• Have loss of bowel or bladder control

In some cases, a laminectomy is performed alongside a herniated disc repair. This allows access to the affected disc by removing part of the lamina.