In this video, Dr. Webb explains the difference between a laminectomy and laminotomy.
What is the difference?
Laminectomy and laminotomy are both surgical procedures performed on the spine to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. They are often used to treat conditions like spinal stenosis or herniated discs. While they share similarities, there are key differences between the two procedures:
Laminectomy:
A laminectomy is a more extensive spinal surgery. It involves the removal of the entire lamina, which is a flat piece of bone at the back of the vertebra, covering the spinal canal.
The removal of the entire lamina provides greater access to the spinal canal and allows for more decompression. It is generally used when there is a significant compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. Laminectomy may result in greater instability of the spine, and spinal fusion is sometimes performed to stabilize the area.
Laminotomy:
A laminotomy is a more conservative procedure, usually done to relieve pressure of one or two nerves (disc herniation). It involves the removal of only a portion of the lamina, creating a small window or opening in the bone to access the spinal canal. A laminotomy is less invasive compared to laminectomy, which means it typically results in less damage to the spinal structures and a quicker recovery. It is often used when the compression on the spinal cord or nerves is mild to moderate.
In summary, the primary difference between laminectomy and laminotomy lies in the extent of bone removal. Laminectomy removes the entire lamina, providing more extensive access to the spinal canal, while laminotomy removes only a portion of the lamina, offering a more limited view and decompression. The choice between these procedures depends on the specific condition, the severity of compression, and the goals of the surgery, and it is typically made by a spine surgeon after a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition.
To see Dr Webb as a patient, please contact:
Antonio J. Webb, MD
Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
South Texas Spinal Clinic
9150 Huebner Road Suite 290
San Antonio, Texas 78240
Office: 210-614-6432
Fax: 210-293-4171
www.spinaldoc.com
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