Laminectomy Specialist
Spine, Sports Medicine & Orthopedics in Valdosta, GA
When conservative treatments fail to relieve neck or back pain, surgical intervention may be necessary. During a laminectomy, the experienced orthopedic spine surgeons at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates in Valdosta, Georgia, remove a portion of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This procedure is designed to reduce pain and improve mobility. To schedule a consultation, call the office or book an appointment online today.
Questions and Answers
Laminectomy Q&A
What is a laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that removes part of the vertebral bone called the lamina. The lamina forms the roof of the spinal canal and helps protect the spinal cord.
Also known as decompression surgery, a laminectomy creates more space within the spinal canal, reducing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that may be causing pain, weakness, or numbness.
Who Benefits From a Laminectomy?
The specialists at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates determine whether a laminectomy is appropriate after a thorough consultation. Surgery is typically recommended only when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.
You may benefit from a laminectomy if you experience chronic neck or back pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs or bone spurs, especially when pain radiates into the arms or legs. In some cases, a laminectomy may also be performed to remove spinal tumors.
What Happens During a Laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a major surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, so you remain asleep throughout the surgery.
During the procedure, your surgeon makes an incision over the affected vertebrae and removes the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Bone spurs, abnormal growths, or portions of a damaged disc may also be removed if necessary.
To improve spinal stability, your surgeon may perform a spinal fusion at the same time. Spinal fusion connects two or more vertebrae using bone grafts and hardware such as rods and screws to limit excessive movement.
After surgery, you’re monitored in a recovery area. Depending on your overall health and the extent of the procedure, you may be discharged the same day or stay overnight for observation.
How Long Is Recovery Following a Laminectomy?
Recovery time varies based on the extent of surgery and whether spinal fusion was performed. The team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates provides detailed post-operative instructions during your surgical consultation.
Many patients are able to resume most daily activities within a few weeks, although full recovery may take several months. Physical therapy is often prescribed to support healing, restore strength, and improve mobility.
Most patients experience significant improvement in radiating pain following a laminectomy.
Schedule a Laminectomy Consultation
If chronic neck or back pain is affecting your quality of life, a laminectomy may be an effective treatment option. To schedule a consultation with the spine specialists at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates, call the office or book an appointment online today.
