Cervical Laminoplasty

 Cervical laminoplasty is a surgical procedure that is used to treat spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The procedure involves removing a small section of bone from the back of the neck, which allows more room for the spinal cord and nerves to move freely. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with symptoms such as neck pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or hands, or difficulty with balance or coordination related to spinal stenosis. It is often used as an alternative to cervical fusion surgery, which involves permanently fusing the vertebrae together. 

Cervical laminoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep during the procedure. The surgeon makes a small incision in the back of the neck to access the cervical spine. The lamina, which is a bony arch that covers the spinal cord, is carefully cut and hinged open, creating more space for the spinal cord and nerves. The surgeon may also remove any bone spurs or other obstructions that are putting pressure on the spinal cord. Once the spinal cord is free from pressure, the lamina is repositioned and secured in place with small plates and screws, allowing for proper healing and stability.

After the surgery, the patient may be monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure proper healing and to manage any pain or discomfort. A  soft neck brace or collar may be worn for several weeks to support the neck and allow for proper healing. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help the patient regain strength and mobility in their neck. Over time, the spinal cord and nerves will have more room to move freely, reducing pressure and relieving symptoms such as neck pain, numbness or weakness in the arms or hands, or difficulty with balance or coordination related to spinal stenosis.