Services
FAQs - Cervical Laminectomy
Q:What is wrong with my neck?
A:You have a "pinched nerve." This can be caused by ruptured discs or bone spurs. Discs act as shock absorbers between each vertebra and are located near the nerves that travel down to the arms. If the disc is damaged, a portion of it may bulge, become herniated, or even burst free into the spinal canal, putting pressure on the nerve. This can lead to pain, weakness or numbness in the arms.
Q:How can it be fixed?
A:A small incision is made in the neck. Muscles supporting the spine are temporarily moved to the side and a small opening is made in the spinal canal. The spinal nerve is protected and the bone spur or ruptured disc fragment is removed. A larger incision may be required if bone spurs and arthritis are the cause of the problem.
Q:When is this surgery necessary?
A:The major reason people undergo spinal surgery is to relieve intolerable pain. Non-surgical measures can often control the pain. However, if the pain persists to the point of not being able to function, or if weakness or other neurological problems develop, surgery may be necessary to relieve the situation.
Q:How long will I be in the hospital?
A:Most patients stay for 24 hours.
Q:Will I need a blood transfusion?
A:Very little blood loss usually occurs with this surgery and transfusions are rare.
Q:Is the entire disc removed?
A:Only the ruptured portion and any other obviously damaged disc material. This normally accounts for no more than 10 to 15% of the entire disc.