HEMILAMINECTOMY
Laminectomy vs. Hemilaminectomy
Hemilaminectomy means only half of the lamina is removed. This is a slightly smaller surgery than a laminectomy. Usually a laminectomy is for spinal stenosis vs. a hemilaminectomy for a disc herniation.
WHAT IT IS A HEMILAMINECTOMY?
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure in which space is created by removing the back part of a vertebra that covers the spinal canal, known as the “lamina”. The addition of the prefix “hemi”, which means half, doesn’t change much. In fact, the addition of “hemi” changes less as a hemilaminectomy removes less bone. A Hemilaminectomy is the partial removal of the lamina to decompress the spinal canal. This procedure may also be referred to as decompression surgery. The goal of a hemilaminectomy or decompression procedure is to enlarge the spinal canal and take pressure off the spinal cord or nerves.
TREATING STENOSIS AND DISC HERNIATION
Conservative approach
A hemilaminectomy may be needed if conservative treatments fail to relieve the patients pain. Initially, treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and injections may be attempted to help relieve the pressure on the spinal canal. In our practice, conservative treatments for spinal stenosis can be overseen by a spine surgeon, a PM&R (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) doctor, or a Interventional Pain Management Anesthesiologist. The need for a laminectomy or a partial hemilaminectomy is typically due to bony overgrowths within the spinal canal. These overgrowths cause the spinal canal to narrow which can put pressure on the nerves. The narrowing of the spinal canal is called stenosis, the narrowing that puts pressure on the nerve roots is called foraminal stenosis. This narrowing can result in pain, weakness, or numbness that radiates down your arms or legs. Surgical intervention Your provider may recommend a laminectomy if:
- Conservative treatment, such as medication or physical therapy, fails to improve your symptoms
- You have muscle weakness or numbness that makes standing or walking difficult
- You experience loss of bowel or bladder control
HOW IS A HEMILAMINECTOMY PERFORMED?
A laminectomy or hemilaminectomy can be performed traditionally, or minimally invasively.
- The surgeon makes an incision in your back over the affected vertebrae and moves the muscles away from your spine as needed. The size of the incision may vary; the procedure may be minimally invasive which would result in a smaller incision.
- Small instruments are used to remove the appropriate lamina.
- If laminectomy is being performed as part of surgical treatment for a herniated disk, the surgeon also removes the herniated portion of the disk and any pieces that have broken loose (discectomy).
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F.A.Q.
What is a Hemilaminectomy?
Hemilaminectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat various spinal conditions by removing a portion of one of the vertebral laminae (the bony arches of the spine). This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, which can be caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or bone spurs. By creating more space in the spinal canal, a Hemilaminectomy aims to reduce pain, numbness, and other symptoms associated with these conditions.
Who is a Candidate for Hemilaminectomy?
Hemilaminectomy is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing symptoms related to spinal cord or nerve compression. Candidates for this procedure may have conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other spinal abnormalities that are causing significant pain, weakness, or numbness in the back, legs, or arms. To determine if Hemilaminectomy is the right treatment option, it’s essential to consult with an orthopedic specialist who can evaluate your specific condition and medical history.
What Should I Expect During the Hemilaminectomy Procedure?
During a Hemilaminectomy procedure, you will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure you are unconscious and pain-free throughout the surgery. The surgeon will make an incision over the affected area of your spine and remove a portion of the lamina, creating space in the spinal canal. This alleviates the pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. After the procedure, you may stay in the hospital for a short period of observation, and your recovery period will depend on your specific condition and the extent of the surgery.
