Video:What Is a Lumbar Laminectomy Procedure?
If the discs of the spinal cord become injured, a lumbar laminectomy can relieve pressure on the injury. Lumbar laminectomies remove the injured portion of the spinal disc, and relieve pressure and pain on the nerve.
Transcript:What Is a Lumbar Laminectomy Procedure?
What Are Intervertebral Discs?
A person's spinal column consists of 33 vertebrae that house and protect the spinal cord. These vertebrae are separated and cushioned by intervertebral discs.Injuring the Spinal Cord
When a disc becomes compressed, it may herniate, or rupture, and press on a nerve where it comes off the spinal cord. This can result in moderate to severe pain. In addition, extra growths of bone known as "spurs" may press against a nerve. If a bone spur is formed in the central canal of the vertebrae, then the spinal cord is also compressed.What Is a Lumbar Laminectomy?
A surgical procedure called a lumbar laminectomy can relieve the pressure placed on the injured nerve and spinal cord.What Happens During a Lumbar Laminectomy Procedure?
During a lumbar laminectomy a small incision is created in the skin along the lumbar vertebrae. The muscles are separated and the bone is exposed. The "lamina" portion of the vertebrae is slowly and carefully removed, taking pressure off the pinched nerve and spinal cord. The nerve is then pulled gently to the side and the herniated portion of the disc is removed. The nerve is then relieved of all pressure and pain. Muscles are then put back in place and the incision is closed.Risks of a Lumbar Laminectomy
There are several potential complications associated with this procedure that should be discussed with a doctor prior to surgery.Copyrighted animations provided by Blausen Medical.
