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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Your first visit to Hoag Orthopedic Institute is a chance for you and your spine specialist to get a complete picture of your current back health and goals for recovery. You’ll meet with a board-certified, fellowship-trained back doctor who will listen to your concerns, review any prior imaging or test results, and ask detailed questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. A detailed physical exam may follow to assess your range of motion, strength, and nerve function.
Your back specialist may recommend advanced imaging or additional diagnostic tests available onsite. Together, you’ll discuss what’s causing your pain or mobility limitations and review both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear and personalized plan designed for your specific needs—and a team ready to support you through each step of your care.
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You can connect with one of our qualified spine specialists to review your symptoms, discuss any existing test results, and explore your back treatment options. To schedule your appointment, simply call our scheduling team at (949) 890-0464 or complete the secure request form on our website.
We’ll connect you with the right back doctor for your needs and can help arrange imaging or records before your visit. From the start, you’ll have access to advanced diagnostics and the latest treatments—including the latest techniques for minimally invasive procedures—tailored to your condition and goals.
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At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our highly qualified physical therapists, back doctors, and spine surgeons work together to treat a broad range of spine conditions. These include addressing herniated discs, relieving spinal stenosis, and managing degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. Conservative treatments often include targeted physical therapy, image-guided injections to relieve nerve pain, or medications to reduce inflammation.
When surgery is your most effective option, our spine specialists perform procedures including spinal decompression to free compressed nerves, spinal fusion to stabilize the spine, and disc replacement to maintain mobility. Many operations are performed using minimally invasive or robotic-assisted techniques, which combine advanced imaging with precise instrument control to protect surrounding tissues and support a smoother recovery. Our back specialists devise a custom spine plan for each patient, designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help them return to active, pain-free living.
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Hoag Orthopedic Institute offers expert care from fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons, back doctors, and spine specialists who are leaders in their field. Our team also utilizes advanced techniques such as robotic-assisted spine surgery—providing greater surgical planning, accuracy, steadier instrument control, and less disruption to healthy structures for a smoother recovery.
Exceptional technology and an excellent surgical outcome form just part of your experience with our specialized back care. Your orthopedic spine doctor will focus on your total well-being, creating a personalized treatment plan—surgical or non-surgical—to help you move without pain and regain function. From diagnosis through recovery, we’re committed to getting you back to the lifestyle you love, free from the limitations of back pain or dysfunction.
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