Laminectomy Procedures in New Jersey
If you are struggling with a spine condition, the possibility of surgery may sound intimidating. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute has perfected the art of minimally invasive spine surgery, including laminectomy, to reduce pain in the most effective, efficient manner possible. With locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, Freehold, and Hainesport, we serve all of New Jersey with high-quality spine care to help patients get back to a pain-free life.
What Is a Laminectomy?
During a laminectomy, a surgeon removes all or most of a vertebra’s lamina. The lamina is also called the roof of the vertebra. It is located at the posterior, pointing toward the rear, and serves to support the spinal cord. This procedure may be done to create extra room in the spinal canal, allowing your spinal cord or root nerves to function without being impinged or impeded. It may also be done to access a difficult-to-reach part of the spine that is damaged – for instance, a herniated disc. By removing the lamina, surgeons can access the disc more easily to perform the necessary repairs.
Why Receive a Laminectomy?
Laminectomy is recommended for a variety of medical conditions affecting the spine. Among other conditions, laminectomy might be used to treat:
- Cervical stenosis
- Lumbar stenosis
- Cervical herniated disc
- Thoracic disc herniation
- Lumbar herniated disc
- Spine tumors
In most cases, NU-Spine opts for conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rest, or an ice pack. Surgery is recommended only if these treatments do not provide relief. It may also be considered if your condition significantly impacts your quality of life. Severe spine conditions can impede mobility, interfere with bladder or bowel control, disrupt sleep, and make it difficult to perform everyday activities. In these cases, laminectomy may help you return to a higher quality of life.
Who Performs Laminectomy at NU-Spine?
At NU-Spine, surgical procedures like laminectomy are provided by our resident Branko Skovrlj, MD. He is one of the few board-certified neurosurgeons in New Jersey to focus solely on the spine. He specializes in all kinds of spine surgery with a special focus on complex procedures and minimally invasive spine surgery. Dr. Skovrlj is world-renowned and has received multiple awards for his research and contributions to medicine.
Despite his rewards and accolades, Dr. Skovrlj holds onto his small-town values. He takes the time to get to know each of his patients personally to establish a rapport. His down-to-earth and approachable personality makes him easy to talk to when discussing your condition.
How Is Laminectomy Done?
H2: How Is Laminectomy Done?
Spinal laminectomy is most often performed as an open procedure, meaning you will be admitted to the hospital for a multiple-day stay. You will first be asked to remove your clothing and put on a gown. After positioning you on the operating table, Dr. Skovrlj will administer general anesthesia. He will perform the following steps during the laminectomy:
- Skovrlj makes an incision in the skin.
- Using specialized instruments, he gently pushes aside muscle and tissue to expose the spine.
- He uses small tools to remove bone spurs and most or all of the lamina.
- If necessary, he then performs a discectomy.
- Sometimes, Dr. Skovrlj may need to stabilize your spine with a spinal fusion by connecting two or more vertebrae with pins and rods.
- The incision is closed and dressed with a sterile bandage.
After your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room where we will monitor your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing until you are awake and alert. You will then be taken to your hospital room. You will likely go home within a day or two, and Dr. Skovrlj will be in touch with recovery instructions.
Minimally Invasive Laminectomy
Depending on your condition and its severity, you may be a candidate for a minimally invasive laminectomy. This kind of procedure uses smaller incisions and tools to reduce the stress on your body. Here are some of the key highlights:
- It is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home immediately afterward.
- It reduces the risk of infection and other complications following your surgery.
- You may recover faster, allowing a return to your everyday life sooner.
When discussing treatment options with you, Dr. Skovrlj will help you understand the differences and recommend the best choice for your situation.
Treat Your Pain at NU-Spine
If you or a loved one may need spine surgery like a laminectomy, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with our spine experts today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today for an initial consultation, or to visit one of our New Jersey locations in Paramus, Woodbridge, Toms River, Jersey City, Holmdel, Freehold, or Hainesport.