Laminectomy

Laminectomy at Garnet Health

The skilled neurosurgeons at Garnet Health perform laminectomies for patients across Orange and Sullivan Counties and the surrounding areas. We are recognized for our dedication to excellence — earning accolades such as the Healthgrades America’s 100 Best Hospitals for General Surgery™ award. We go above and beyond to ensure that our patients have the best possible experience, and understand that being recommended for a laminectomy can be stressful. You can rest easy knowing our team is here to help you navigate the entire process, from your initial consultations through your rehabilitation.

Why Would You Need a Laminectomy?

Laminectomies can be performed to treat a number of spine conditions. They’re commonly used to relieve pain caused by spinal bone spurs, which often result from spinal arthritis. As the cartilage in your spine starts breaking down through ongoing wear and tear, your body may naturally produce excess bone to help protect your spine. If they press on nearby nerves and tissues, the pressure can lead to symptoms such as:

• Pain
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Stiffness
• Weakness

Garnet Health’s experienced doctors, nurses and advanced practice providers are often able to treat these symptoms using conservative techniques, including pain medication, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy and periodic rest. If these methods don’t provide sufficient relief, we may recommend surgery.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

During a laminectomy, a surgeon removes the lamina (the back portion of a vertebra) to widen the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots enclosed within it. The surgeon may also remove bone spurs or other tissues exerting pressure within the spinal canal.  

What Does Recovery From a Laminectomy Involve?

While some patients are able to go home the same day as their surgery, others require a brief hospital stay. We’ll provide you with recommendations tailored to your specific condition. You’ll find it best to limit certain activities in the weeks following your surgery, and you may want to consider attending physical therapy as part of your rehabilitation program.

At Garnet Health, we’re often able to perform laminectomies using minimally invasive techniques. If this is the best care approach for you, a minimally invasive technique can reduce the risk of complications, shorten recovery time and minimize post-surgical pain and discomfort.

The skilled neurosurgeons at Garnet Health perform laminectomies for patients across Orange and Sullivan Counties.