Laminectomy at Max Hospitals: Expert Care for Spinal Relief

Laminectomy involves removing the lamina (a portion of the vertebra) to relieve pressure caused by conditions like:

• Spinal stenosis
• Herniated discs
• Bone spurs
• Spinal tumors

The procedure can be performed on any part of the spine and is often recommended when conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications are ineffective.

Laminectomy is effective in treating:

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck or lower back.
• Herniated Discs: Discs pressing on spinal nerves.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Breakdown of discs causing nerve compression.
• Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips over another.
• Spinal Tumours: Abnormal growths compressing the spine.
• Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Bony projections pressing on nerves.

• Pain Relief: Reduced pain caused by nerve compression.
• Improved Mobility: Regain your range of motion and return to daily activities.
• Enhanced Nerve Function: Relief from symptoms like numbness and weakness.
• Quick Recovery: Minimally invasive techniques result in faster recovery.
• Long-lasting Results: For many, the procedure provides ongoing relief.

• Before Surgery: You'll have a thorough evaluation, including diagnostic tests like MRI or CT scans. Preoperative instructions will be provided.
• During Surgery: Laminectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision to access and remove the lamina. In some cases, additional procedures like spinal fusion may be done.
• After Surgery: You'll stay in the hospital for 1-3 days. Recovery involves gradually increasing activity and following a rehabilitation program, including physical therapy.

Though laminectomy is generally safe, it carries potential risks such as:

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Bleeding
• Spinal instability
• Chronic pain

Contact Max Hospitals

Our team is ready to guide you through the laminectomy process. Schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can help relieve your spinal pain and improve your quality of life.

1. What are the types of laminectomy?

• Open Laminectomy: A traditional approach with a larger incision.
• Minimally Invasive Laminectomy: Smaller incisions and quicker recovery.

2. How long is the procedure?

It typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on complexity.

3. What is the recovery time? 

You may return to light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery in a few months.

4. Will I have visible scars? 

Minimally invasive techniques result in smaller, less noticeable scars.

5. How do I manage pain after surgery? 

Your doctor will prescribe medications, and you may use ice packs or follow a physical therapy regimen.

6. Can laminectomy cause permanent damage? 

While risks exist, permanent damage is rare. Most patients experience significant relief.

Reviewed by Dr. Kapil Jain - Associate Director – Neurosurgery, Neurosciences, Spine Surgery, Paediatric (Ped) Neurosurgery on 30 Sep 2024.