One of the many different types of spine surgery is known as a laminectomy. It is a type of surgery that opens the back of the vertebrae, the part of the spinal column that covers the spinal canal. This type of surgery is designed to relieve some pressure that may be put on the nerves or spinal cord. It is also something is referred to as decompression surgery. There may be a number of different reasons why the surgery is performed but having it performed by the best offer possible is imperative if you want to improve the possibility for success.
One of the more common reasons why a laminectomy may be performed is because of bony overgrowth that is growing in the spinal and is coming in contact with nerve roots and the spinal cord. This is a relatively common problem in individuals who have arthritis of the spine. It can also occur in others who are just prone to this type of problem. The laminectomy opens up the area so that the bones are no longer come in contact with the spinal column. It will often provide immediate relief for those who have the procedure.
Prior to the time that a laminectomy is performed, there may be a number of different nonsurgical that are used. These could include various types of physical therapy, spinal injections, and medication. If those treatments are able to relieve the symptoms and allow the person to live a life that is relatively free of pain, then surgery may not be necessary. On the other hand, if the symptoms are getting progressively worse or have changed dramatically in the recent past, your doctor may decide that a laminectomy is the best choice for you.
There are a number of benefits to having this type of surgery but the primary benefit is the fact that it can help to relieve some symptoms that you may be experiencing, such as severe back pain. Other symptoms that could be involved with these types of problems include numbness, weakness, and tingling. These problems could be localized to the area but it may also be possible but they are radiating to other parts of the body, such as the legs or the arms. Getting relief from the symptoms is important but you should also understand the possibility of risks that are associated with this procedure.
Generally speaking, this is a safe surgery and in most cases, it sees a high degree of success. There is still the possibility of some complications as a result of the procedure that could include injuries to the nerve, infections, and bleeding.
If you live in the Frisco area, you have access to one of the top neurosurgeons in the United States. Dr. Dickerman has helped many people to deal successfully with many of the spine problems that have experience. He does so by offering options for nonsurgical treatment and if necessary, performing minimally invasive surgery to help the individual overcome their spine problem.
