Introduction

A Lumbar Laminotomy and Discectomy is performed to remove pressure off of one or more nerve roots cause by a disc herniation or bone spurring.

This less invasive procedure commonly is used to treat lumbar disc protrusions, lumbar disc herniations, and some forms of spinal stenosis.

Lumbar Discectomy surgery has been shown to be successful with good to excellent results in up to 90% of patients with sciatica (leg pain) based on a single level disc herniation with appropriate patient selection. This surgery is much more predictable for alleviating leg pain than back pain. Despite a successful outcome from surgery, a small percentage will develop a recurrent disc herniation at the same level.

This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis for most patients. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and benefits that should be discussed and considered.

Last modified: October 22, 2019

Description of Procedure

This surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Once you are comfortable and asleep, you will be positioned on your stomach. Live x-ray is used to localize the area of your incision.

A small incision will be made overlying the affected area of your low back. The length of the incision will vary based on the number of levels involved. Using specialized retractors, the surgeon will develop a plane through layers of muscle that will allow access to the affected area. Once the correct level(s) are confirmed, the surgeon will use a high speed drill or other surgical instruments to create a small opening in the bone (laminotomy). This allows access to the affected nerve roots. A retractor is placed to protect the nerve while ruptured portion of dis (discectomy) and/or bone fragments are removed to decompress the nerve root.

The layers of muscle and skin are sewn back together with suture and steri-strips are applied over the incision.

Advantages of this less invasive approach include minimal muscle and soft tissue disruption which can lessen post-operative pain, reduce bleeding risk, and allow for faster recovery.

Last modified: October 22, 2019

FAQ's

Last modified: October 22, 2019

Risks

Some of the risks and complications associated with this procedure include:

• Wound infection


• Hematoma


• Bleeding


• Nerve injury


• Cerebrospinal fluid leak from a Dural tear


• Loss of bowel or bladder function


• Blood clots


• Numbness (temporary or permanent)


• Scarring of the nerve(s)


• Recurrent disc herniation/protrusion


• Incomplete relief of symptoms


• Risks associated with anesthesia

Last modified: October 22, 2019

Evidenced Based Links

• http://www.spineopedia.com/article/minimum-25-year-outcome-and-functional-assessment-of-lumbar-discectomy/


• http://www.spineopedia.com/article/long-term-outcomes-of-surgical-and-nonsurgical-management-of-sciatica-secondary-to-a-lumbar-disc-herniation-10-year-results-from-the-maine-lumbar-spine-study/

Last modified: October 22, 2019