Cervical laminectomy is an operation to relieve pressure on the spinal cord in the neck by removing the lamina — the bony arch at the back of the vertebrae. It is performed for cervical spinal stenosis causing spinal cord compression (myelopathy).
An incision is made in the midline at the back of the neck. The muscles are moved aside to expose the vertebrae. The lamina and any thickened ligament are removed to create more space for the spinal cord. Multiple levels are usually decompressed. The procedure may be combined with fusion using screws and rods to prevent the spine from becoming unstable or developing a kyphotic (forward) curve. The operation takes two to three hours.
Cervical laminectomy is recommended for multi-level cervical spinal stenosis causing myelopathy — symptoms include difficulty with balance, leg stiffness, hand clumsiness, and bladder problems. It is typically chosen over ACDF when three or more levels need decompression.
Mild myelopathy may be monitored with regular MRI. Physiotherapy can help with balance and function. However, spinal cord compression that is causing progressive neurological symptoms generally requires surgery to prevent further deterioration.
Thorough pre-assessment. MRI and CT scans for planning. This is a more significant procedure than anterior surgery, with a longer recovery.
The primary aim is to prevent further deterioration of spinal cord function. Many patients experience stabilisation of symptoms, and some improve. Recovery of established spinal cord damage is variable and may be incomplete.
Expected, particularly if fusion is performed.
Post-operative neck and shoulder pain from muscle dissection. Usually improves over months.
More blood loss than anterior procedures. Transfusion may be needed.
Risk approximately 1%. Could cause worsening weakness or, very rarely, paralysis.
Weakness of the deltoid muscle after decompression. Occurs in approximately 5% and usually recovers.
Wound or deep infection. Risk approximately 2–3%.
Dural tear with spinal fluid leakage.
If laminectomy is performed without fusion, the spine may develop a kyphotic deformity over time.
If fusion is performed, screws may loosen.
General anaesthesia with neuromonitoring. Positioned prone (face down) or sitting.
Hospital stay of two to five days. A collar may be worn for several weeks. Walking is encouraged early. Physiotherapy for balance and neck rehabilitation. Return to desk work at four to eight weeks. Avoid heavy lifting for three months. Full recovery takes three to six months.
Regular follow-up with X-rays at six weeks, three months, and one year.
Many patients notice improvement in balance, though recovery of established spinal cord damage is variable. The primary aim is to prevent further deterioration.
Removing the lamina can make the spine less stable. Adding screws and rods (fusion) prevents the spine from developing an abnormal forward curve.