Laminectomy
What Is a Laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the vertebra called the lamina, the back part of the spinal bone that covers the spinal canal. By removing this section, the procedure relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, which may be caused by:
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs
- Bone spurs
- Tumors or cysts
Why Is Laminectomy Performed?
Laminectomy is often recommended when:
- Nonsurgical treatments (physical therapy, injections, or medications) haven’t worked
- You experience significant pain, numbness, or weakness
- Symptoms interfere with walking, standing, or performing daily tasks
- Diagnostic imaging confirms nerve compression
Conditions That May Require Laminectomy
A laminectomy may be part of treatment for:
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated discs (in some cases)
- Spondylolisthesis
- Sciatica caused by nerve root compression
What to Expect from the Procedure
Laminectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia and may be done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on your condition. During the procedure:
- The surgeon makes a small incision over the affected area.
- The lamina is carefully removed to decompress the spinal cord and nerves.
- If necessary, other procedures like a discectomy or spinal fusion may be done at the same time.
Recovery usually includes some physical therapy and activity modifications. Most patients experience reduced pain and improved function within a few weeks.
Recovery and Outlook
After a laminectomy, most patients can:
- Walk the same day or within 24 hours
- Resume light activity within a few weeks
- Return to work depending on the nature of their job
- Regain mobility and reduce nerve pain significantly
While recovery times vary, Iowa Ortho’s spine care team is with you every step of the way.
Expert Spine Care at Iowa Ortho
At Iowa Ortho, our spine specialists use the latest techniques to deliver long-lasting relief and minimize downtime. If you’re dealing with persistent back pain or nerve-related symptoms, we’ll help you determine whether a laminectomy is the right option for you.