One of a selection of treatments for spinal stenosis, a cervical laminoplasty involves releasing the excess pressure by reshaping or repositioning the bone that is the source of the concern. This process involves reshaping or repositioning the roof of the vertebra, known as the lamina. This differs from a laminectomy in that nothing is removed from the area in favor of reshaping it to accommodate the nerves passing through. Like most surgical treatments, laminoplasties are generally suggested when all other non-invasive treatment options have been tried or ruled out as an option.

When Is A Cervical Laminoplasty Necessary?

The term spinal stenosis describes a condition where the spinal canal becomes narrow due to the degradation of discs, growth of bone spurs, or degeneration of the joints surrounding it. As the arthritic joints gain bulk from growths, they can impact the available space for nerve roots, resulting in them becoming compressed. This condition can also be caused by the thickening of ligaments around these nerve bundles. All of the aforementioned conditions can be the cause of spinal stenosis, and as the condition worsens, a host of symptoms can appear.

Common Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis include:

• Weakness in the arms and hands
• Tingling sensations
• Numbness
• Pain in the neck or shoulders
• Impaired bladder and bowel control

This procedure helps to relieve pressure on these nerves by eliminating the cause of the pressure without interfering with the stability of the surgical site. Another name for this procedure is an “open door laminoplasty.” This is a result of the hinging of one portion of the vertebrae and the cutting of a “door” on the other side so that it can be opened and the work performed. This procedure is typically suggested by Dr. Czerwein when less invasive procedures have failed to produce results. The outcome of CT Scans, MRI Scans, and X-Rays will also have revealed it to be an effective solution for your concerns.

What Is The Recovery Time From A Cervical Laminoplasty?

The minimally invasive nature of a cervical laminoplasty makes recovery shorter than with traditional procedures. During your preparation for the procedure, Dr. Czerwein will outline a series of post-operative exercises and recovery steps to help you return to your regular activities as soon as possible. Generally, you have a high chance of being able to leave the hospital on the day of the procedure, often with greatly improved symptoms. Even in cases where your symptoms do not immediately improve, you will generally experience a gradual improvement in your condition as time goes by. 

Ready to discover more about cervical laminoplasties and whether they can help you with your concerns? Reach out to Dr. John Czerwein and arrange an appointment to get evaluated for this procedure today. During your appointment, you’ll go over your medical history, talk about your symptoms, and arrange any tests necessary to determine your course of treatment. We look forward to seeing you soon!