What is a laminectomy?
A laminectomy is a surgical procedure in which a surgeon cuts through part of the spinal bone or the back arch. This is the lamina, the layer that covers the spinal canal.
During a laminectomy, the spinal canal is widened, which means less pressure is placed on the nerve and spinal cord. A laminectomy is a decompressive surgical maneuver, the purpose of which is to relieve pressure, strain, and compression.
In a large percentage of clinical cases, the cause of pressure in the spinal canal is excessive bone growth. The cause of abnormal bone growth is biological age (aging) or arthritis in the spine. Genetic predisposition is also noteworthy.
Laminectomy is prescribed when a course of medication, physiotherapy or injections do not bring the desired result, or the symptoms are severe and the patient's condition worsens against the background of pain or numbness, respectively, the quality of life decreases.
Laminectomy does not cure back pain directly.
After laminectomy, physiotherapy may be necessary - the goal of the course is to improve the musculoskeletal system and strengthen the muscles.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laminectomy/about/pac-20394533
