As per the reports of the National Library of Medicine, approximately 80% of people suffer from back pain and 30% from leg pain. Do you struggle with chronic back pain, severe leg pain, or other spinal conditions? And looking for the solution? Then you are in the right place. Dr. Evan Trapana is the most experienced spine surgeon who helps patients to get rid of these issues through the laminectomy procedure.
Understanding Laminectomy & Laminoplasty – What is it?
A laminectomy is when they operate on the patient’s spine by removing a part of it, namely, the lamina. The lamina is made of thin layers of bone protecting the delicate spinal cord. Things like herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis cause a narrowing of the spinal canal, press against nerves or the spinal cord, and cause pain, numbness, or weakness. In this sense, laminectomy surgery can relieve pain by enlarging the spinal canal and relieving pressure on the nerves within. This surgery helps patients by reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring well-being.
Laminoplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat conditions that cause narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis), particularly in the cervical spine (neck area). It involves reshaping or repositioning the lamina, the bony part of the vertebra that covers the spinal cord, to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Laminoplasty is typically recommended when conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy do not provide sufficient relief from symptoms.
Dr. Evan Trapana: Best Spine Surgeon performing Laminectomy in Miami
Dr. Evan Trapana is a highly skilled laminectomy surgeon in Miami. Here are a few reasons why Dr. Trapana is the best spine surgeon to choose:
Expert Care: Dr. Trapana has been performing spinal surgeries and treating spine issues for many years.
Surgical Minimally Invasive: Dr. Trapana will perform surgeries with smaller incisions, which means less pain, fewer complications, and faster recovery.
Customized Treatment: Dr. Trapana will properly evaluate you, your health history, and even your significant symptoms before suggesting the best treatment plan.
Continued Post Operative Support: After the surgery, Dr. Trapana and his team will ensure that every patient goes through recovery to ensure proper healing so they can quickly return to normal activities.
Conditions Treated with Laminoplasty
Cervical Spinal Stenosis: A condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms, hands, or legs.
Myelopathy: A condition that occurs when the spinal cord is compressed due to stenosis or other structural problems, leading to weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty walking.
Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A form of spinal cord compression caused by age-related wear and tear on the cervical spine, which may lead to nerve and spinal cord issues.
Herniated Disc: When a disc in the cervical spine bulges or ruptures and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Benefits of Laminoplasty
Relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, reducing pain, numbness, and weakness.
Preserves motion in the cervical spine, unlike fusion surgery, which eliminates movement between vertebrae.
Improves overall spinal function and quality of life by allowing for better mobility and less discomfort.
Minimizes the risk of complications such as infection or blood loss compared to more invasive surgical options.
Procedure of Laminoplasty
Incision: A small incision is made in the neck to access the spinal area.
Reshaping or Repositioning of the Lamina: The surgeon reshapes or repositions the lamina to enlarge the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Stabilization: In some cases, the lamina may be secured in place using bone grafts or small plates and screws.
Recovery: The procedure generally requires a hospital stay, followed by a rehabilitation period to regain strength and mobility in the neck.
Risks and Considerations of Laminoplasty
Infection at the surgical site
Bleeding or blood clots
Damage to surrounding nerves or structures
Failure of the procedure to relieve symptoms
Neck stiffness or limited mobility post-surgery
Laminoplasty can be an effective treatment for spinal conditions that compress the spinal cord or nerves, providing relief from pain and improving function. However, it is important to consider the potential risks and discuss the best treatment options with a healthcare provider before undergoing surgery.
Laminectomy Procedure:
Spine ‘laminectomy’ is the removal of a portion of the bone structures surrounding the spinal cord. The procedure is usually done under general anaesthesia so that you will be asleep all through the surgery. The surgery may be done in two ways:
Traditional Laminectomy: In a traditional laminectomy, Dr. Trapana will make a small incision in the skin over the spine. The muscles and tissues are moved to expose the spine’s bones. The lamina will be removed to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The incision is closed after surgery, and the patient is taken for recovery.
Minimally Invasive Laminectomy: The term describes laminectomy using much smaller incisions. Dr. Trapana will perform the surgery by using special tools and a camera instead of a direct view. This also implies lesser damage to the area surrounding the incision, less pain after surgery, and shorter recovery time. Dr. Trapana is well-trained to perform new techniques that ease healing and help you feel better faster.
Outcomes of Laminectomy Surgery:
Laminectomy surgery administered by Dr. Trapana can be effective in eliminating severe spinal conditions. The major benefits are outlined as follows:
Pain Relief: There is often immediate relief from leg pain, back pain, or numbness as the affected nerve decomposes.
Improved Mobility: Many patients find they can move better and do daily chores more easily after surgery.
Minimally Invasive Options: Dr. Trapana employs advanced techniques that reduce tissue disruption, allowing for smaller incisions, less scarring, and quicker recovery.
Long-Term Relief: In patients with spinal stenosis or other conditions of nerve compression, laminectomy can lead to lasting relief and quality of life improvement.
Schedule your Consultation Today!
If you want relief from your back or leg pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Evan Trapana. On your visit, Dr. Trapana will evaluate your body, hear about your symptoms, and discuss the most appropriate treatment. Contact Us Today at:
Ques. How long does recovery take following a laminectomy?
Ans. Recovery can depend on the type of laminectomy performed and how well the body heals, as recovery time may vary from patient to patient. A minimally invasive laminectomy provides quicker recovery in a couple of weeks. Full recovery may take several months.
Ques. Will I have pain after surgery?
Ans. A sense of discomfort or mild pain is expected right after the procedure, but these conditions will be easily treated with any conventional pain medication. Postoperative pain is considerably less after the minimally invasive laminectomy compared to conventional techniques.
Ques. Does insurance cover laminectomy surgery?
Ans. Many insurance plans offer coverage for laminectomy surgery, but it will depend on the specifics of your plan. It is, therefore, a good idea to check with your insurance company about your coverage before the surgery is scheduled.
