Cervical Laminoplasty

Cervical laminoplasty is a surgical procedure in which a small section of the bony roof of the spine, the lamina, is moved to expand the spinal canal. This differs from a cervical laminectomy, in which the lamina is removed.

During a cervical laminoplasty, the posterior muscles are detached and small cuts are made in the posterior cervical laminae. The laminae are then hinged open like a door, allowing the cord precious extra millimeters of space. Bone graft or metal plates are often placed along the opening to maintain their open position.

What medical conditions may benefit from a cervical laminoplasty?

Medical conditions that may benefit from a cervical laminoplasty include:

Orthopedics and Spine