Minimally-Invasive Back Surgery for Nerve Compression

Posted On: 02-15-2019

Neck and back pain is often linked to nerves that are compressed because of a lack of sufficient space. This typically happens when herniated discs, slipped vertebra (spondylolisthesis), bone spurs, or abnormalities like lumbar (lower back) or cervical (neck-related) spinal stenosis crowd nerve roots. One less invasive way to create more room for spinal nerves is with a procedure known as a microlaminectomy.

What Is a Microlaminectomy?

The back of the spinal canal has a bony, protective covering called the lamina. When a microlaminectomy is performed, the lamina is removed to create more space for nerves. It's a minimally invasive form of a traditional open laminectomy performed with smaller incisions and specialized instruments. Patients often benefit from less post-operative pain, fewer surgical risks, and a shorter recovery period.

The most common reason to remove the lamina is because of spinal cord or nerve compression. In some cases, a microlaminectomy is performed to access a damaged intervertebral disc that will be corrected with another procedure. For instance, the lamina may need to be removed if a herniated disc is in a part of the back or neck that's difficult to reach with other methods.

How it’s Done

A microlaminectomy can be performed as what's termed a "mini-open" procedure with smaller incisions and instruments. If a tubular version of a microlaminectomy is done, a small tube is inserted through an incision. Larger tubes are progressively inserted until there is enough room to perform the steps necessary to remove the lamina. Retractors can also be used to place discs back into their normal position if the reason for a microlaminectomy is disc "bulging" or slippage.

A lighted tube with a camera attached called an endoscope is usually inserted to provide a more detailed view of the affected area. With some procedures of this nature, a surgical microscope is used to help with visualization. General anesthesia is typically used for all forms of a microlaminectomy.

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