What is cervical laminoplasty?

The cervical part of the spine includes the 7 vertebrae that make up the bones in the neck. The lamina is the “roof” of bone over the spinal canal. Laminoplasty literally means “lamina reshaping or lamina molding.” During cervical laminoplasty, the lamin is reshaped or repositioned to relieve stress on the spinal nerves in the neck. Laminoplasty differs from a cervical laminectomy, where the bone is removed in part or completely. Laminoplasty is most commonly performed in the cervical spine but can also be done in the thoracic or lumbar spine (middle or lower back). Doctor Brenton Pennicooke, a spinal neurosurgeon, treats patients in Saint Louis, Creve Coeur, and surrounding cities in St. Louis County, Missouri who may need a cervical Laminoplasty to relieve pressure and pain in the neck or upper spine.

Why would I need a cervical laminoplasty?

Some patients experience a narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the nerves or the spinal cord. This type of pressure can result in neck pain or weakness and numbness in an arm or hand. Continued spinal compression can permanently damage the spinal cord tissues. Patients most likely to benefit from a cervical laminoplasty have the following spinal conditions:

  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Cervical Myelopathy: Compression of the cervical spinal cord
  • Cervical Osteophytes: Rounded or scalloped bone growth, similar to bone spurs, in the spine

How is cervical laminoplasty done?

There are several steps Dr. Pennicooke takes to complete a successful cervical laminoplasty. First, there is extensive imaging that may include x-rays, CT and an MRI. While every surgery is specific to the patient, most can expect the following:

  • General anesthesia
  • An incision is made in the back of the neck, along the area for the laminoplasty.
  • Neck muscles and other tissues are moved to expose the lamina in the back portion of the vertebrae.
  • A groove is cut on one side of the vertebrae to create a hinge.
  • The other side of the cervical vertebrae are carefully cut all the way through.
  • The tips of the spinous processes are removed, creating enough room for the bone to open, like a door.
  • Pennicooke opens the “door” which relieves the pressure on the spinal cord.
  • The bone is reshaped, creating small wedges that are placed in the open gap.
  • The wedges help maintain the “doorway” and keep it from closing completely.
  • This allows the spinal cord and nerves to rest completely without pressure.
  • The muscles and soft tissues are placed back into their correct position and the incision is sutured closed.

What should I expect after a cervical laminoplasty?

Directly after surgery, a soft surgical collar is placed to protect the neck and to help support the area while it heals. Pain medication may be prescribed if needed and should be used only as directed. Activity is often limited for the first few weeks, followed by physical therapy and strengthening exercises. Most patients are able to return to normal activities in about 4-6 weeks and complete recovery can take between 6-12 weeks.

Cervical Laminoplasty Surgeon

Some individuals can experience a narrowing of the spinal canal which puts pressure on the nerves of the spinal cord. When this occurs, pain can be extreme and can cause numbness or tingling in the fingers and hands. A cervical laminoplasty can be done to alleviate the pressure on the spinal cord and to help the patient have less pain and a higher quality of life. Cervical laminoplasty surgeon, Doctor Brenton Pennicooke,  provides diagnosis as well as surgical treatment options for patients in Saint Louis, Creve Coeur, and surrounding cities in St. Louis County, Missouri. who may need a cervical laminoplasty. Contact Dr. Pennicooke’s team today!