A posterior cervical laminoplasty is routinely performed to remove pressure on the spinal cord and nerves due to cervical spinal stenosis (narrowing). Cervical stenosis can result in cervical myelopathy (spinal cord injury), which may cause difficulty with use of the hands, numbness, tingling, weakness, balance problems or spasticity.

PROCEDURE

The surgery is performed through a skin incision on the back of the neck.   A hinge is created on one side of the cervical lamina to make more space for the spinal cord. A piece of bone and metal plate are placed on one side to maintain the space and keep the central spinal canal decompressed. After pressure is removed from the spinal cord, the skin is closed using dissolvable sutures and sterile superglue. Some patient’s may require a neck brace after surgery.