A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that may be performed as the sole surgical intervention, or it may be used in combination with other procedures, such as a discectomy, and/or fusion. The term "laminectomy" refers to the removal of part or all of the lamina, which is the bony structure that covers the back of the disc.

The lamina of one or more vertebral bodies may be involved in the procedure, depending on the location of the problem and the stability of adjacent structures. In some cases, a laminectomy may relieve the pressure being caused by a protruding or herniated disc, thereby eliminating the need to remove the problem disc. When surgery on the spinal cord is required, a laminectomy may be performed to gain access to the affected cord segment. The pressure caused by spinal stenosis also may be relived by laminectomy.  

• Posterior Cervical Laminectomy -- This surgery can be performed for singular or multiple levels of compression. A posterior approach is used to manipulate or remove the roof of the spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or the nerve roots. This may require a fusion during the procedure including use of a plating system with bone screws or wires. A postoperative brace is often needed.

 
• Lumbar Laminectomy for Tumor -- The lumbar laminectomy can be used to remove a tumor in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar area. A fusion may also be necessary based on the amount of bone that has to be removed to decompress the compressed nervous tissue.

 
• Laminectomy and Fusion for Spondylolisthesis -- In the condition called spondylolisthesis, one bone slides forward or backwards on the bone above or below it. It can be caused by a traumatic injury, or a congenital or degenerative process. When the segment of the spine slips or displaces in either direction, it can provide a scissoring effect on the surrounding nervous tissue. Decompression and stabilization for a fusion may be necessary.