Laminectomy Spine Surgery

A laminectomy surgery is a common type of spine surgery. During the procedure, a spine surgeon removes a small section of bone (called the lamina) from the lower spine. This is often used in the lower spine (lumbar laminectomy) but may also be needed in the neck (cervical laminectomy) or the middle of the back (thoracic laminectomy).

Why is a laminectomy performed?

The natural process of aging of the bones of the spine starts around age 30 and in many individuals will lead to pain or nerve-related symptoms. When these symptoms interfere with function and quality of life, surgery is often the best option. Sometimes a laminectomy is performed as part of a larger surgery for other reasons.

Lumbar spinal stenosis may cause:

• Pain when you walk or bend over.
• Numbness or tingling near your legs, groin or lower back.
• Bladder or bowel problems (which is less common but can be serious).