Cervical laminoplasty is a specialized procedure aimed at relieving pressure on the spinal cord in the cervical spine (neck area). This surgical technique is distinct from traditional spinal surgeries in that it involves reshaping the bone without removing it. It is a common approach for decompression neck surgery, particularly in patients with spinal stenosis.
A cervical laminectomy, on the other hand, entails the removal of small bony structures (the spinous process and lamina) from one or more vertebrae in the neck to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord, which can cause pain. This method is typically employed in treating cervical spinal stenosis, a condition where the spinal canal narrows.
The cervical region of the spine, encompassing vertebrae C1-C7, supports the weight of the head and facilitates a wide range of motion in the neck, thanks to the atlas and axis vertebrae. Cervical myelopathy and radiculopathy are conditions resulting from the compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots in this area. They can cause symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, and limited neck mobility.
Cervical laminoplasty addresses these issues by removing pressure from the spinal cord in the neck, which can stem from various causes such as degenerative changes, arthritis, bone spurs, disc herniations, or fractures. Another related surgery, Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF), combines spinal decompression and fusion to treat conditions like herniated discs and compressed nerves.
In cases of cervical radiculopathy, non-operative treatments are often sufficient for recovery. However, if pain persists, surgical options like spinal decompression surgery may be recommended. A cervical microdiscectomy is another surgical option specifically for patients with a herniated disc in the cervical spine, addressing issues like nerve compression that can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness.
For further information on these procedures, visit HSS Spine Surgery: Cervical Laminoplasty, HSS Instrumented Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion, or URMC Cervical Decompression for detailed insights.
