Neck pain, headaches and the other symptoms associated with cervical disc issues can bring your normal lifestyle to a screeching halt. Although it may seem as though there is no relief in sight, a posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion may be exactly the ticket to returning to a normal and pain-free lifestyle.
What is Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion?
The purpose of a posterior cervical laminectomy is to surgically provide relief from pressure being placed on the spinal cord due to spinal stenosis (a condition in which the spinal canal in the upper spine or neck narrows, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots).
This surgery is done under general anesthesia. An incision three to four inches in length is created along the center of your neck. The muscles are moved out of the way and held aside with retractors. Your surgeon then creates two “channels” along either side of the spine (through the part of the vertebrae known as the lamina). Once this is achieved the bony structure between the two laminae (known as the spinous process) is removed to create more room for the spinal cord.
When a laminectomy is performed in conjunction with a fusion, the affected vertebrae are “fused” together. This procedure involves joining these vertebrae together using bone grafts, screws and rods to provide added support. The muscles are then released and moved back into place and closed to provide protection for the spinal canal. Your incision may be sutured, stapled or glued closed or a combination of these.
Recovery after Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion
Once your surgery is complete you will be moved to a recovery room. Here, you’ll be monitored until you’re awake. You may be given pain medications and when ready, moved to a room. You will spend an average of two to four days in the hospital. During this time you’ll be asked to sit up, walk, and if recommended by your surgeon, begin physical therapy.
Once home you’ll need to take it easy. You’ll have pain medications that you’ll need to take to maintain comfort. You may need to wear a neck brace to help support and immobilize the surgical site during healing. Showering is allowed but it is important to thoroughly and gently dry your incision. It is imperative that you not lift objects weighing more than five pounds.
Very mild exercise such as short walks will help you regain your strength and maintain proper circulation. Smokers are asked to quit before surgery – if you are a smoker you’ll need to continue to avoid smoking once home, as it can interfere with healing. A few days following your surgery you will change your dressing. If you have staples or sutures, these are removed around day 10 – 14.
If you work in a low-impact job (such as a desk job) your surgeon may release you to return to work three weeks after surgery. If you work at a high-impact or strenuous job you may be advised to wait longer. You may also be able to remove the neck brace at this point.
Six to eight weeks after surgery you will go in for a follow-up. You’ll have X-rays at this time to ensure that the bone graft is healing well. If all is healing according to plan, your surgeon will release you to increase your activity level.
Risks of Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion
Every surgery carries risks. Those associated with posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion can include:
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Nerve or spinal cord damage
- Cerebrospinal fluid leak
- Failure to prevent degeneration, and
- Recurrence of a disc prolapse.
Is a Posterior Cervical Laminectomy and Fusion Right for Me?
At this point, you may be wondering if a posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion is the right choice for your condition. Only you and your surgeon can determine that; however, there are some points you should take into consideration.
- These procedures are highly successful in helping people suffering from degenerative diseases resume a normal life.
- Removal of the narrowing bone will allow your spinal cord to heal and move freely.
- Numbness in your extremities resulting from nerve impingement will often be resolved.
- Neck pain is improved.
It’s important to explore your options when choosing to have corrective surgery. With the support of an experienced neurosurgeon, you will be able to make the best decision based on your goals and lifestyle.