Many people wonder what is the laminectomy, although it is a term that we do not usually find in our day to day. Nevertheless, if you want to know in depth your spine and the different problems and solutions to them that may exist, It is important to know these concepts..
Index
What is a laminectomy?
A laminectomy It is a surgery through which it is sought to create a space between the extraction of the lamina, which is the posterior part of the vertebra that is responsible for covering the spinal canal. Also known as decompression surgery, and is that it is responsible for enlarging the aforementioned spinal canal in order to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, thus giving a solution to the problem that can be suffered in this part of the back.
As a general rule, it must be taken into account that this pressure is caused by the excessive growth of the bone within the vertebral canal.. This can happen frequently in those patients who suffer from arthritis in the spine.
This excessive growth is sometimes considered and called bone spurs, although it must be taken into account that it is a common side effect of the aging process itself in some people.
On the other hand, it should be remembered that it is customary to resort to laminectomy only on those occasions when more conservative treatments, as is the case of physiotherapy, injections or medications, and failed to alleviate the symptoms suffered. In this way, a solution is sought that allows the patient to enjoy greater well-being and free himself from this problem.
in addition, it must be borne in mind that the laminectomy It is also usually recommended in those cases in which patients also suffer from symptoms that are severe or if they worsen drastically.. A) Yes, The aim is to tackle the problem as quickly as possible in order to make the patient free from the pain and discomfort he suffers for this reason..
Why is laminectomy performed?
Excessive bone growth within the spinal canal can cause the space available for both the spinal cord and nerves to narrow.. The cause of this pressure, the patient who suffers from it may suffer from pain, weakness or numbness; and this can extend to the legs or arms.
Because the laminectomy manages to restore the space that is necessary so that the spinal canal does not cause this damage, keep in mind that does not cure arthritis. Nevertheless, it is more effective in relieving symptoms caused by nerve compression than in relieving back pain caused by spinal joints.
The specialist may recommend the patient to have a laminectomy in the following cases:
- When the conservative treatment that has been initially recommended, such as the use of medications or physiotherapy, fails to improve the patient's symptoms.
- In those cases in which there is muscle weakness or numbness that causes difficulty both walking and standing.
- If you begin to lose bowel or bladder control.
In certain cases, laminectomy may become necessary as part of surgery for the treatment of a intervertebral disc herniation. In these types of situations, the surgeon may need to remove part of the lamina in order to gain access to the damaged disc..
Risks
The laminectomy it is a surgical procedure that is considered safe, yes ok, just like any other type of surgery, complications can occur, How can the existence of bleeding, infection, nerve injury, blood clots or cerebrospinal fluid leak.
Preparation of the operation
To carry out this surgery it is necessary to take into account a series of prior considerations, having to avoid eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before surgery. This indication will be given by the specialist himself., who will be the one to give the necessary specific instructions about the types of medications and which ones to take or avoid before undergoing this surgery.
Surgery
In general, when carrying out the laminectomy, surgeons resort to general anesthesia, which implies that the patient will be unconscious during the procedure. After surgery, the patient is transferred to a recovery room, where the specialist will check for complications from surgery and anesthesia, also being able to ask him to move his arms and legs; and medications may also be prescribed to relieve pain at the incision site.
One point to consider is that it is possible to go home the same day of the surgery, although some people may need a short hospital stay. In fact, It is likely that the specialist will recommend physiotherapy sessions after having undergone an intervention of laminectomy so that strength and flexibility can be improved.
Depending on the number of times you have to lift things, walking and sitting at work, You will be able to return to work in just a few weeks; and if performed in conjunction with a spinal fusion, longer recovery time will be needed.
Laminectomy Results
It is important to note that in most cases, being subjected to a laminectomy Significant improvement in symptoms, especially in terms of reducing pain spreading to the legs or arms.
Nevertheless, Keep in mind that this benefit can be reduced over time if you have any type of particularly aggressive arthritis.. Laminectomy is less likely to improve back pain.