Hemilaminectomy Procedures in New Jersey
If you are struggling with back pain, hemilaminectomy may be the answer. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute offers minimally invasive spine surgery to relieve pain as effectively as possible. We are one of the few spine hospitals in New Jersey to offer specialty treatments such as hemilaminectomy surgery, helping patients get back to a pain-free life.
What Is a Hemilaminectomy?
The spine is composed of a series of interlocking bones called vertebrae. Even one vertebra is a complex structure with multiple parts, each serving a different purpose. The lamina is the roof of the vertebra. Located at the rear of the bone, it provides protection and support for the spinal cord.
The word hemilaminectomy means half of a laminectomy. During the procedure, the neurosurgeon will carefully remove part of the lamina from one or more vertebrae. This creates space around your spinal cord and root nerves, allowing them to function without impingement. Hemilaminectomy may also be performed to help the neurosurgeon access a damaged section of the spine that’s difficult to reach. Removing parts of the lamina allows surgeons to perform repairs more easily.
Why Receive a Hemilaminectomy?
Our specialist at NU-Spine will carefully monitor your condition before recommending surgery. In most cases, conservative treatments are sufficient to provide relief. We begin by recommending methods such as physical therapy, rest, ergonomic support, or an ice pack.
Some spine pain, however, does not respond to non-invasive treatments. In these cases, surgery may be required. Hemilaminectomy is a versatile procedure that can be effective in treating a wide variety of medical conditions. Some diagnoses that might lead to hemilaminectomy include:
- Cervical facet syndrome
- Cervical stenosis or lumbar stenosis
- Cervical radiculopathy, thoracic radiculopathy, or lumbar radiculopathy
- Scoliosis
- Spine deformity
- Spinal cord injury
- Cervical myelopathy, thoracic myelopathy, or lumbar myelopathy
- Pars defect
- Cervical degenerative joint disease or lumbar degenerative joint disease
- Cervical herniated disc, thoracic herniated disc, or lumbar herniated disc
- Tumors
Conditions like these can cause serious symptoms that may impact your quality of life. You may struggle with persistent pain, numbness in your extremities, difficulties with mobility, or a loss of bowel control. If you struggle with daily activities due to an uncomfortable spine condition, don’t hesitate to contact NU-Spine.
Who Performs Hemilaminectomy at NU-Spine?
At NU-Spine, surgical procedures like hemilaminectomy are performed by Branko Skovrlj, MD. He is one of the few board-certified neurosurgeons in the state to focus only on the spine. He specializes in all kinds of spine procedures and has contributed to research to improve the field of spine surgery. Dr. Skovrlj is known throughout the world for his work and has received multiple awards for his accomplishments.
Dr. Skovrlj emphasizes minimally invasive surgeries. These are performed with advanced tools and endoscopic cameras, allowing the spine surgeon to create smaller incisions to perform procedures. The smaller incision creates less blood loss during the surgery and leaves a smaller opening for infection. Patients recover more quickly with less risk of complication, allowing for better outcomes.
How Is Hemilaminectomy Done?
Because hemilaminectomy is used to treat such a wide variety of conditions, no two procedures are the same. Hemilaminectomy is often performed alongside other surgeries to provide the necessary relief. Most procedures, however, occur under general anesthesia. This keeps you asleep throughout the surgery. Once the anesthesia is at work, Dr. Skovrlj will perform the following steps:
- Skovrlj makes a tiny incision in the skin.
- Using specialized instruments, he nudges muscle and tissue aside to expose the spine.
- He uses small tools to make openings in the lamina or to cut parts of it off.
- If necessary, he performs a discectomy or microdiscectomy to remove damaged parts of a spinal disc.
- He may also perform lumbar decompression to release pressure on the spinal cord.
- Sometimes, surgical work leaves the spine unstable. Dr. Skovrlj may stabilize it with a spinal fusion by connecting two or more vertebrae.
- The incision is closed and dressed in sterile bandages.
Afterward, you will be taken to a recovery room where we can monitor your vital signs until you are fully awake. You will then be taken to your hospital room. Post-surgery recovery depends on how extensive your surgery was. Some patients may go home the same day of their procedure, while others may have to stay overnight. Dr. Skovrlj will provide recovery instructions once you are home. These may include:
- Taking over-the-counter or prescription pain medications
- Abstaining from chores and housework for four to six weeks
- Walking daily for up to 30 minutes to encourage blood flow
- Avoiding prolonged periods of sitting
- Attending periodic physical therapy sessions to rebuild strength and mobility
He will also tell you when you may return to work and other physical activities. By following his instructions carefully, you can maximize your chances of a full and complication-free recovery.
Treat your Pain at NU-Spine
If you struggle with back pain that a hemilaminectomy might fix, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with the spine experts at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation at one of our locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, Freehold, or Hainesport, NJ.