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Laminectomy Procedure in Mukundapur

Laminectomy

Laminectomy Procedure in Mukundapur

A Laminectomy is a surgical procedure performed by orthopaedic surgeons to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the spine. This pressure can cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the back or legs. During a Laminectomy, the surgeon removes part of the bony arch of the vertebra called the lamina, which creates more space for the spinal cord and nerves. This helps alleviate symptoms and allows for better function and mobility. After surgery, patients may experience some discomfort but should gradually notice improvements in their symptoms as they heal. 

The skilled surgeons at Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, use advanced techniques to ensure minimal invasiveness, reducing recovery time and post-operative pain. Patients benefit from comprehensive care, including pre-surgical evaluations, state-of-the-art surgical facilities, and personalised rehabilitation programs to restore mobility and enhance overall quality of life. Manipal Hospitals' commitment to excellence ensures effective treatment and improved outcomes for patients undergoing Laminectomy surgery in Mukundapur.

 

FAQ's

The primary reason for Laminectomy is the existence of spinal canal stenosis. There are several causes of spinal canal constriction, including congenital, metabolic, traumatic, or tumoral. However, degenerative stenosis is the most frequent. Your spinal column narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves in this disorder. Spinal stenosis can result from:

  • Age-related changes in the spine include shrinkage of the discs and swelling of the bones and ligaments. These changes are more common in older people with osteoarthritis 

  • Congenital defects are defects present from birth, such as abnormal growth of the spine

  • An abnormal growth of the bones is called Paget's disease of the bones

  • Achondroplasia, a kind of dwarfism 

  • Spinal tumour

  • A slipping or ruptured disc

There are several types of Laminectomies, each tailored to specific conditions and locations within the spine:

  • Conventional Laminectomy: An open-back procedure is a Conventional Laminectomy. There are certain risks, even though the technique is generally safe. On the back, there is a large incision that cuts through connective tissue and muscles.

  • Hemi Laminectomy: This involves the removal of lamina only on one side.

  • Cervical Laminectomy: A Cervical Laminectomy is a surgical procedure where a surgeon removes part of the cervical vertebra from the neck.

  • Lumbar Laminectomy: This procedure treats the lower back's vertebrae. This surgery will help alleviate leg, buttock, and back pain.

  • Sacral Laminectomy: The inner layer of the fused sacral vertebrae is removed during a Sacral Laminectomy.

Laminectomy is not a choice of treatment for patients suffering from the following: 

  • Scoliosis

  • Spondylolisthesis

  • Lateral ligament damage

  • Individuals who have concomitant scoliosis, depression, and impaired walking

The following are a few potential risks of this procedure:

  • Infection, wound breakdown

  • Bleeding

  • Superficial or deep blood clots in the legs

  • Chest infection

  • Damage to the dura (the covering that covers the spinal cord), which results in spinal fluid leakage

  • Nerve injury, weakness, numbness, paraplegia, or quadriplegia, (depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury)

  • Delayed instability

Recovery post-laminectomy hinges on pre-surgery fitness and activity levels. Typically, it takes 4–6 weeks to regain normal mobility and function, but the severity of pre-existing symptoms influences this timeline. General post-operative discomfort and fatigue may persist for up to 6 weeks. Recovery duration adjusts based on individual circumstances and the physical demands of the occupation.
 

Self-care after the procedure is so crucial. Following your doctor's advice, you can maintain your health as recommended, such as:  

  • Continue to take the medications as directed, especially the entire course of treatment.

  • Do not put a strain on the spine, such as extended periods of sitting or standing, bending at the waist, flexing the spine, climbing stairs excessively, or taking lengthy car rides.

  • Avoid high-heeled footwear

  • Make sure your mattress is firm when you sleep

  • Follow whatever exercises you were instructed to do while in the hospital. Increase them gradually, but discontinue the activity if you start to feel pain.

  • Do not lift heavy weights, bend, or twist anything

  • Follow the advice of your physician and physiotherapist 

The long-term prognosis after a Laminectomy procedure varies depending on factors such as the underlying condition being treated, the extent of the surgery, and individual patient factors. In many cases, Laminectomy can provide significant relief from symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness caused by spinal compression. However, regular follow-up with healthcare providers and adherence to post-operative care recommendations are essential for monitoring progress and managing any potential complications that may arise.
 

Alternatives to Laminectomy exist, depending on the condition. Spontaneous improvement or nonsurgical approaches like rest, exercise, weight loss, TENS therapy (transcutaneous electrical stimulation), and medications are viable options. Consult with your medical professionals for medication, therapy, or less invasive interventions such as Neurotomies or Spinal Cord Stimulation. Additionally, seeking advice from chiropractors, osteopaths, or acupuncturists can complement traditional medical treatments. These alternatives offer a range of solutions tailored to individual needs and preferences. 
 

Inform your healthcare provider if you see any of the following:

  • Fever

  • Inflammation, redness, haemorrhage, or other discharge from the wound site

  • Intense pain in the area of the incision

  • Numbness in your back, buttocks, or legs

  • Having trouble urinating or losing control of your bowels or bladder