Name of the Procedure:

Laminectomy with exploration and/or decompression of spinal cord and/or cauda equina, without facetectomy, foraminotomy or discectomy (e.g., spinal stenosis), 1 or 2 vertebral segments; thoracic

Summary

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of part of the vertebral bone called the lamina. This specific laminectomy targets the thoracic spine (mid-back) and is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or cauda equina without additional techniques like facetectomy, foraminotomy, or discectomy.

Purpose

This procedure is primarily performed to treat spinal stenosis, a condition where the spinal canal narrows, leading to compression of the spinal cord or cauda equina. The goal is to alleviate pain, numbness, and other symptoms by providing more space for the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Indications

• Persistent back pain not relieved by conservative treatment
• Symptoms of spinal stenosis, such as numbness, weakness, or tingling in the arms or legs
• Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
• Loss of bowel or bladder control in severe cases

Preparation

• Preoperative fasting for at least 8 hours if general anesthesia is planned
• Discontinuation or adjustment of certain medications, as advised by the healthcare provider
• Preoperative imaging studies (MRI or CT scans) to assess the extent of spinal stenosis
• Blood tests and other routine evaluations to ensure fitness for surgery

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on the surgical table and administered anesthesia (general or regional).
2. An incision is made over the targeted thoracic vertebrae.
3. Muscles and soft tissues are gently moved aside to access the spine.
4. The lamina of the affected vertebrae is partially or fully removed to decompress the spinal cord and cauda equina.
5. Any exploring or additional decompressing of the spinal cord and cauda equina is performed without removing other structures like facets or discs.
6. The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the number of vertebral segments addressed and the complexity of the decompression.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Spine surgeon or neurosurgeon
• Surgical nurses and assistants
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Radiology technician (if intraoperative imaging is needed)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Spinal fluid leak
• Blood clots
• Postoperative pain or stiffness
• Rarely, worsening of symptoms

Benefits

• Relief from pain, numbness, and weakness
• Improved mobility and function
• Reduction in the risk of nerve damage due to chronic compression
• Positive outcomes often noticeable within a few weeks post-surgery

Recovery

• Hospital stay for 1-2 days post-surgery
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Gradual return to normal activities as advised by the surgeon
• Physical therapy may be recommended to aid recovery
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and exercise
• Pain management with medications or injections
• Less invasive procedures like endoscopic decompression or laminotomy
• Pros and cons of alternatives include varying degrees of effectiveness, recovery times, and risk profiles compared to laminectomy.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: The patient will be under anesthesia and unconscious or sedated.
• After the procedure: Initial discomfort at the incision site, managed with pain relief medications. Gradual alleviation of pre-surgical symptoms typically begins within days. Ongoing care to prevent complications and ensure optimal recovery.