Cervical laminoplasty, also called laminoplasty, is a type of surgery that helps relieve pressure on the spinal cord in the neck (cervical spine). This surgery is especially useful for people with conditions like cervical spondylotic myelopathy and cervical stenosis, where the spinal cord is compressed. Cervical laminoplasty directly addresses the compressed areas.
What is Cervical Laminoplasty Surgery?
A posterior cervical laminoplasty is a type of surgery done from the back of the neck.  Cervical laminoplasty surgery creates more room for the spinal cord inside the spinal canal (the space in the spine where the spinal cord sits). This is usually recommended when other treatments like physical therapy don’t work to ease symptoms like numbness or weakness in the arms and legs, walking difficulty, or urinary issues.  By relieving pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, cervical laminoplasty can make symptoms much better and significantly improve a patient’s quality of life.
How Does the Cervical Laminoplasty Procedure Work?
The cervical laminoplasty procedure is done under general anesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep during the surgery. The surgeon makes a cut in the back of your neck to reach the cervical spine. They then cut through the lamina, the bony roof of the spinal canal, and create a hinge on one side. This hinged open technique lets the lamina swing open like a door, making more space inside the spinal canal. The surgeon will use a metallic plate and screws to keep the lamina in this new position, ensuring the space stays open.
Benefits of Cervical Laminoplasty
One of the main benefits of cervical laminoplasty is that it relieves pressure on the spinal cord without completely removing the lamina. This helps keep the neck stable and reduces the chance of problems after surgery. By creating a hinge and using a metallic plate/screws the surgeon can keep the extra space open in the spinal canal, preventing future compression.
What is Cervical Laminoplasty Recovery Time?
Recovery time after cervical laminoplasty can be different for each person, but most people can go back to their normal activities within a few weeks after surgery. At first, you might feel some discomfort and have limited neck movement, but these usually get better with time and physical therapy. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and go to all follow-up appointments to heal properly.
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How Does Cervical Laminoplasty Help the Spine?
Cervical spine laminoplasty is a great option for people with spinal stenosis, cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and other conditions that squish the spinal cord. This surgery relieves pressure on the spinal cord. By making more space in the spinal canal, cervical laminoplasty can ease symptoms and improve overall spinal health.
Understanding Laminoplasty of the Cervical Spine
Cervical laminoplasty surgeries are complex and need skilled surgeons with lots of experience. These surgeries require careful planning and precise execution to get the best results. Surgeons must consider different factors, like the patient’s specific condition, location of compression, extent of compression, and the overall health of the cervical spine.
Why Choose Neurosurgeons of New Jersey for your Cervical Laminoplasty
Neurosurgeons of New Jersey has been voted the #1 Surgical Practice in New Jersey for Neurosurgery, offering exceptional care across 11 convenient locations throughout the state. The practice is distinguished not only by our top-ranking but also by the top-notch education and numerous prestigious awards held by our doctors. We accept and work with a broad range of health insurance networks including Aetna, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Oxford/United Healthcare, Cigna, Personal Injury Protection (PIP)/No-Fault for New Jersey Motor Vehicle Accidents, the Empire Plan (NYSHIP), Medicare, NJ Medicaid, and Workers’ Compensation. Even if your insurance is not listed, you may still be eligible for significant coverage, ensuring that high-quality neurosurgical care is accessible to a wide range of patients.
Long-Term Outcomes of Cervical Laminoplasty
People who have cervical laminoplasty usually see improvements in their symptoms and quality of life. The success of the surgery depends a lot on following post-surgery care and rehabilitation. Physical therapy is crucial for recovery, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and function of their extremities and neck.
Authors of this Blog: The Ridgewood Spine Team
Dr. Michael G. Kaiser, MD, FACS, FAANS
Dr. William S. Cobb, MD, PHD, FAANS
Dr. Gaetan Moise, MD, FAANS
Dr. Alfred T. Ogden, MD, FAANS
Dr. Jonathan Yun, MD, FAANS
About Ridgewood
Our team of board certified physicians, located in Ridgewood, New Jersey, are dedicated to bringing you the latest developments and treatment options for spinal surgery. We strive to produce the most clarified & clear content to help you make informed decisions on your medical journey. The road to feeling like your true self should not feel lonely- Let us help you. Please call us to schedule a consultation and speak to one of our team members.
