About Laminectomy

This procedure is performed through an incision on the back. The surgeon removes the bone called the lamina. Therefore, this operation is called a laminectomy.

STEP 1
First, the surgeon removes the spinous process or the portion of the vertebra that protrudes most from the back of the spine. These are the bones that you feel when you touch the mid portion of your lower back.

STEP 2
The surgeon then removes the lamina or the portion of the vertebra that covers the nerve roots and the spinal cord. Removing the damaged lamina opens up the spinal canal, taking pressure off the nerves.

STEP 3
There still may be some pinching due to pressure within the nerve foramina. The surgeon clears away any bone fragments painfully pressing on the nerve roots.

END OF OPERATION
The spinal canal is now clear of any bone fragments, relieving pressure from the nerve roots and spinal cord. The surgeon checks the nerve roots to make sure they are free from pinching.