Name of the Procedure:

Laminotomy (Hemilaminectomy), with Decompression of Nerve Root(s), including Partial Facetectomy, Foraminotomy and/or Excision of Herniated Intervertebral Disc, Reexploration, Single Interspace; Cervical

Summary

A cervical laminotomy, also known as hemilaminectomy, is a surgical procedure where part of a vertebral lamina is removed to relieve pressure on nerve roots in the neck area. This may involve additional procedures like facetectomy (partial removal of a facet joint), foraminotomy (widening of the passage where nerves exit the spine), or excision of a herniated disc.

Purpose

The procedure aims to alleviate symptoms caused by compressed nerves in the cervical spine, such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and arms. It is often performed to address issues caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other spinal abnormalities.

Indications

• Significant neck and arm pain due to nerve compression.
• Numbness or weakness in the arms.
• Herniated cervical disc.
• Spinal stenosis in the cervical region.
• Failure of conservative treatments (physical therapy, medications).
• Recurrent symptoms requiring reexploration.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery.
• Discontinuation of certain medications as advised by the physician.
• Preoperative imaging studies (MRI, CT scans).
• Blood tests and medical clearance.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is administered general anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected area of the cervical spine.
3. Exposure: The muscles are gently moved aside to expose the vertebral lamina.
4. Laminotomy: Part of the lamina is carefully removed to access the compressed nerves.
5. Decompression: The surgeon may perform partial facetectomy, foraminotomy, and remove any herniated disc material to relieve nerve pressure.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and the area is bandaged.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity and extent of decompression required.

Setting

The surgery is usually performed in a hospital or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Orthopedic or neurosurgeon specializing in spine surgery.
• Anesthesiologist: Manages anesthesia.
• Surgical Nurses: Assist during the procedure.
• Scrub Tech: Prepares and hands tools to the surgeon.

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Persistent pain or symptoms
• Spinal fluid leak
• Recurrence of symptoms
• Need for additional surgery

Benefits

• Reduction or elimination of neck and arm pain.
• Improvement in numbness and weakness.
• Enhanced quality of life.
• Relief may be noticed immediately or within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

• Hospital stay of 1-2 days if needed.
• Pain management with medications.
• Avoidance of heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Physical therapy may be recommended.
• Follow-up appointments to check the healing process.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy
• Pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Epidural steroid injections
• Alternative surgical procedures (e.g., cervical discectomy and fusion)
• Each alternative has its own set of risks and benefits and may vary in effectiveness.

Patient Experience

• During: The patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel anything.
• After: Pain and discomfort at the incision site, managed with medications.
• Gradual improvement in symptoms over weeks; some short-term restrictions on activity. Comfort measures include ice packs and prescribed pain relief.