How is the Laminotomy procedure different from a Laminectomy?
To open up the spinal canal, we use an endoscopic approach for laminotomies—without the need for general anesthesia. We do not perform laminectomies. A laminotomy is a surgical procedure that is used to relieve pressure off the spinal canal for the exiting nerve root and spinal cord, increasing the amount of space available for the neural tissue and thus releasing the nerve(s). The term laminotomy is derived from the Latin words lamina (bony plate that covers the posterior arch of the vertebra) and -otomy (act of cutting, incision). Another type of surgery called a laminectomy is a procedure used in traditional open back surgeries that involves removing the lamina to increase the amount of space available for the neural tissue. The term laminectomy is derived from the Latin words lamina (thin place, sheet, or layer), and -ectomy (removal).
