LUMBAR LAMINECTOMY, DISCECTOMY, AND MICRO DISCECTOMY

The Lumbar Spine has 5 vertebrae stacked on top of the sacrum

INDICATIONS FOR A LUMBAR LAMINECTOMY

This surgery is most often recommended when a herniated disc pinches nerves, creating symptoms of leg or hip pain, weakness in legs or feet, numbness in legs or feet, and problems with bowel or bladder functions.

THE SURGERY

 On some occasions, the traditional lumbar laminectomy will be the best approach.  Under general anesthesia, an incision is made in the back, cutting the muscles, and pulling them to either side and thereby exposing the posterior elements and lamina. 

The lamina may be removed on one or both sides, allowing access to the foramen, nerve roots and disc.  From this position, the foramen may be "cleaned out" to provide more space for the nerve roots to exit, and the part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve can be removed. Usually, only 10-15% of the disc will be removed. 

Muscles will be sutured back together and the incision closed.  A traditional  lumbar laminectomy usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, with additional levels taking as long as 2 to 2.5 hours.

More recent surgical technology allows a minimally invasive procedure which  reduces recovery time.  A small incision is made, and an endoscope is inserted,providing exposure to the posterior elements.                                                  
Only the part of the disc that is pressing against the nerve, or nerves, is removed.  Muscles are not cut in this process, therefore there is much less discomfort after the procedure.

A MicroEndoscopic discectomy usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, with additional levels taking as long as 2 to 2.5hours. 

Your physician will recommend the best procedure to address your condition.

Hospital stay for MicroEndoscopic surgery, and lumbar laminectomies is usually overnight