What is a Lumbar Decompressive Laminectomy?
Lumbar Stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal. Lumbar decompressive laminectomy is a procedure that uses an operating microscope to remove thickened ligaments and lamina (bone on the back side of the spine) that have encroached into the spinal canal causing Lumbar Stenosis. By removing the thickened ligaments and arthritic bone, the stenosis is corrected and the pressure on the nerves is relieved. The magnification provided by the microscope enables the neurosurgeon to thoroughly decompress (take pressure off) the nerves while maintaining the integrity of the nerves, their protective covering and the stability of the spine. Description of Surgery: Intravenous antibiotics are administered before surgery to decrease the risk of infection. You will be anesthetized (put to sleep), and turned face down on the operating table for the surgery. The appropriate levels may need to be confirmed with an x-ray. Muscle is then carefully dissected off the spine. The microscope is then used for b
