Laminectomy, Laminotomy

Are you experiencing intense pain in your back, arms, and legs? Have nerve issues been troubling you with symptoms such as weak bladder control or loss of bladder or bowel control? Do you struggle walking more than a short distance? If yes, you may be a candidate for laminectomy. Dr. Shelby Burks has extensive experience offering this service to patients looking for relief from this condition.

Laminectomy is an option when conservative measures, including medication, physical therapy, and injections, have failed to provide significant relief of symptoms.

Decompression surgery, also known as a laminectomy, involves the removal of the lamina, which is the rear part of the spine that creates a covering over the spinal canal. This enlarges the spinal canal and helps alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

Who Needs a Laminectomy?

There are a number of factors that determines if you are a candidate for laminectomy:

• You have spinal arthritis and bone spurs.
• You have spinal infections.
• You have spinal tumors.
• You have been experiencing severe or dramatically worsening symptoms including pain, muscle weakness, tingling, or numbness.
• You experiences loss of bowel, bladder, or sexual function.
• All traditional medical interventions such as medications, physical therapy, and injections have failed to alleviate your symptoms.

Before Surgery

The doctor will discuss the type of procedure that is ideal for your condition. He will also inform you about its associated risks and benefits. Your physician must give you a general health clearance letter for surgery. Without this letter, the procedure will not take place. The doctor may also conduct some tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, or other imaging tests, to assess your medical condition and determine if you are fit for the procedure.

The Procedure

During the procedure, the patient is given general anesthesia and positioned face down. To aid in visualization of the operating field, the surgeon uses X-ray or fluoroscopic guidance. X-rays are also used to confirm the level of the spinal injury. The procedure involves making an incision over the specific spinal level and moving aside the muscles and soft tissues to expose the lamina. A part of the lamina is then removed to open up the spinal canal and provide access to the spinal cord and nerve roots. The spinal cord and/or nerves are decompressed as needed, and the incision is closed to complete the procedure.

The procedure of laminotomy is considered minimally invasive, as it involves the use of small incisions that do not harm the muscles or soft tissues.

What to Expect After Surgery?

You will be transferred to a recovery room after the surgery. Here, the medical staff will assess and closely monitor your vital signs.

It is common to experience the following after the surgery:

• A mild discomfort
• Pain at the incision site
• Neck or back muscle spasms

Your doctor may recommend a cervical or lumbar brace. This helps add stability and support during the healing process.

Why Should I Travel to Miami for a Laminectomy?

With extensive experience and expertise in neuro and orthopedic spine surgery, Dr. Shelby Burks possesses a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between the brain, spine, and body. He values each patient as a unique individual, considering not only their physical state but also their emotional and psychological well-being in his care. Dr. Burks’ surgical approach takes into account each patient’s concerns about surgery and the recovery phase, resulting in better overall outcomes.

If you require a laminectomy, it is important to have experienced surgeons who can offer comprehensive spine care. Dr. Shelby Burks is dedicated to helping patients alleviate the pain associated with their condition. If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation, please call 305-243-3276 today.