Laminotomy

Spinal Decompression Surgery

Laminotomy is a spinal decompression surgery that involved the lamina, a thin protective covering located on the back of the vertebra over the spinal canal. Unlike a laminectomy in which the entire lamina is removed, a laminotomy is the partial removal of the lamina. Removing portions of the lamina can help create more space and alleviate pressure on the nerve roots or spinal cord, which can cause pain, weakness in the arms or legs, and difficulties with balance.

A laminotomy is a procedure used to treat back pain, as well as pain that radiates into the legs (sciatica) or arms that may be caused by several conditions, including:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Herniated disc
• Spinal Stenosis
• Arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis

When treating a herniated disc, which involves removal or all or part of the damaged disc (discectomy), a surgeon may need to perform a laminotomy to remove part of the lamina and gain access to the spinal canal so that disc fragments impinging nerve roots can be removed.

Find a Spine Surgeon

Spine Surgery & Comprehensive Care

At the Center for Spine at Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our spine surgeons focus on helping patients lead more active and healthier lives by delivering personalized treatment plans designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Because our Orange County spine surgeons are trained in utilizing the most advanced and evidence-based spine surgery techniques, we can provide patients with options that may work best for them, including minimally invasive spine surgery.

When a surgical procedure is performed with a minimally invasive approach, advanced technology and tools allow for smaller incisions, less disruption of soft tissue, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. In order to determine if you are a candidate for surgery, including minimally invasive laminotomy, we focus on evaluating all aspects of your pain and activity limitations, especially if they have not responded to non-surgical treatment, and utilizing advanced diagnostic testing to determine your underlying condition.

A laminotomy can be performed as an outpatient procedure in which a small portion of the lamina and / or ligaments are removed through a small incision. Patients are typically able to return home after a laminotomy, and will have assistance from our specialists who can help them navigate through their recovery.

Members of our orthopedic spine team include:

• Spine nurse navigators who provides pre- and post-surgery education to ensure a faster recovery.
• Pain management specialists who can treat patients before surgery and during recovery.
• Physical therapists who provide outpatient rehabilitation to help patients restore mobility and return gradually to work and activity.

Request an Appointment with an Orange County Spine Surgeon

The Center for Spine at Hoag Orthopedic Institute is committed to delivering patient-centered care at all phases of treatment. If you wish to begin your journey toward a more active and healthier life, we invite you to schedule an appointment with a spine doctor from our team.

Visit our online physician directory to find a spine surgeon.