Lower back · Decompression
Lumbar Laminectomy
A decompression that removes part of the bony roof of the spinal canal to give compressed nerves more room.
Overview
What is Lumbar Laminectomy?
The lamina is the back part of each vertebra that forms the roof of the spinal canal. In a lumbar laminectomy, part or all of the lamina — along with any thickened ligament — is removed to relieve pressure on the nerves.
It is most often recommended for lumbar stenosis when leg pain, numbness or weakness have not improved with conservative treatment.
Conditions it may treat
Medicare, PPO, private insurance, workers’ comp & cash accepted →
How it works
The procedure, step by step
Step 1
Evaluation
Imaging shows which levels are narrowed.
Step 2
Access
An incision over the affected levels; muscles are moved aside.
Step 3
Laminectomy
Bone and ligament are removed to open the canal.
Step 4
Recovery
Early walking, followed by strengthening as you heal.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Less disruption.
A quicker return to life.
Depending on the extent of stenosis, a laminectomy may be performed through smaller, muscle-sparing incisions.
Conservative first
A Conservative Approach to Spine Care
Dr. Record believes that surgery is not necessarily the first step for every patient. Whenever appropriate, she works with patients to explore non-operative and conservative treatment options first.
When conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief — or when a patient would like to understand whether surgery may be appropriate — Dr. Record provides a comprehensive discussion of available surgical options.
Her goal is to identify the treatment approach that can help alleviate pain, restore function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
FAQ
Questions about Lumbar Laminectomy
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Will removing bone weaken my spine?
In most patients, the spine remains stable after a laminectomy. If instability is present or expected, Dr. Record may recommend adding a fusion.
Can a laminectomy treat more than one level?
Yes — multiple levels can be decompressed in the same surgery when needed.
Will I have imaging done at the office?
No. There are no X-rays in-house. When needed, Dr. Record orders X-rays, MRI, CT scans, nerve testing or lab work through outside facilities and reviews the results with you.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Dr. Record accepts Medicare, workers’ compensation, PPO plans and a variety of private insurance plans, plus cash payments. Many procedures need pre-authorization — our team will help check your coverage before surgery.
Make room for relief
Talk with Dr. Record about whether a laminectomy is right for your stenosis.