Full Endoscopic Laminoforaminotomy

Endoscopic laminoforaminotomy is a minimally invasive spine procedure which is performed to relieve pressure on the nerves in the cervical (neck) region or lumbar (lower back) region. The procedure involves removal of a part of the spinal lamina along with any obstructing bone spurs, bony fragments or disc fragments to widen the foramen and relieve pressure on the nerves. The spinal lamina is a thin, bony plate forming the roof of the spinal canal and the spinal foramen is a hollow opening through which spinal nerves run.

Indications of laminoforaminotomy

This procedure is generally indicated when patients fail to respond to conservative methods of treatment such as physical therapy and medications. Some indications of laminoforaminotomy may include:

• Cervical radiculopathy
• Disc herniation
• Sudden disc injuries
• Bone spurs
• Spinal arthritis
• Radiating neck and back pain
• Spinal stenosis
• Limited back and neck mobility
• Spinal degenerative problems

Procedure of endoscopic laminoforaminotomy

Endoscopic laminoforaminotomy is generally performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. In case of laminoforaminotomy in the cervical region there are two main approaches: anterior approach and posterior approach. The posterior approach has shown better results in relieving foraminal nerve root compression.

Once general anesthesia is administered, your surgeon makes a small incision on the side of your neck or back based on the targeted area of the procedure (cervical or lumbar). Small microscopic instruments are used to remove the lamina and bone/disc fragments causing nerve compression. The incision is then closed with stitches and the wound is covered with a bandage.

Recovery

Patients are generally discharged on the same day of the surgery after post-surgery monitoring and observation. You may feel mild pain and inflammation around the area of incision which eventually subsides within a few days. They you will slowly be assisted to walk after recovery from anesthesia.

Complete recovery may typically take about two to four weeks. Patients are provided with instructions to gradually increase the amount of walking every day along with certain lifestyle changes to improve functional control of the neck and back.