THORACOLUMBAR LAMINECTOMY AND FUSION SPECIALISTS IN NEW JERSEY

    A thoracolumbar laminectomy and fusion is performed through an incision on your mid to lower back. This procedure involves fully or partially removing pieces of bone called spinous process and laminae that surround the spinal cord and/or nerves. This is done to enlarge the space for and to help relieve pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerves. After the laminectomy is performed, natural or synthetic bone material can be added to help fuse the vertebrae. If successful, spinal fusion will typically take place in the weeks and months following surgery. In instances where there is instability, implants such as metal screws and rods can be added to help provide stability to the spine.

    What typically happens during surgery?

    1. Incision and Laminectomy

    An incision is made along the midline of the back at the affected levels of the spine. After the spine is exposed, surgical instruments are used to remove the spinous process, lamina, and any bone spurs that may be intruding into the spinal canal. With these bones removed, the spinal nerves have more space, and the pressure on them can be reduced or removed.

    2. Stabilization

    Before supplemental bone material is added, instrumentation is introduced to help stabilize the spine. Either a drill or a sharp instrument called an awl is used to make holes in the bones connecting the back of the vertebrae to the vertebral bodies in the front of the spine. These bones are called pedicles, and the instrumentation placed into them are called pedicle screws. Pedicle screws are placed on both sides of the spine, and into the vertebrae above and below the laminectomy. Next, rods are positioned between the screws and fastened in place. The rod and screw instrumentation is designed to provide the necessary stability for spinal fusion to occur. If successful, spinal fusion will typically take place in the weeks and months following surgery.

    THORACOLUMBAR LAMINECTOMY AND FUSION

    3. Prepare for Fusion

    Once all screws are placed, a motorized instrument is used to remove the top layer of the transverse processes. This is the site where bone material for the spinal fusion will be added. Bone material can consist of pieces of a patient’s own bone (natural bone material), processed donor bone from a bone bank, or synthetic bone material. To harvest a patient’s own bone, either the original incision or a second incision made over the back of the pelvis allows the surgeon to remove bone from the part of the pelvis called the iliac crest and place it along the prepared site where the top layer of spinal bone was removed. Regardless of which type of bone material is used, the intention is for it to eventually grow in place, fusing the spine in the weeks and months following surgery and providing additional stability.

    THORACOLUMBAR LAMINECTOMY AND FUSION

    4. Surgical Closure

    Your surgeon will close the incision and dress it with a wound covering at the conclusion of the surgery. Some patients require a brace, for a short period of time after surgery. As with any surgery, spinal surgery carries certain risks. Your surgeon will explain all the possible complications of the surgery, as well as side effects.

    FAQs About THORACOLUMBAR LAMINECTOMY AND FUSION

    Can I shower after surgery?

    Depending on the size and location of your surgical incision and what kind of dressing is applied to the surgical site, you may have special instructions for showering. Your surgeon may ask you to wait to shower after surgery for anywhere from one to three days. Don’t soak in water (e.g., bathtubs, swimming pools) until your doctor says it’s okay. As always, ask your doctor what is best for you.

    Will I have a scar?

    Yes. Due to the nature of surgery in general, you will have a scar. Your surgeon may recommend a topical treatment to help reduce scar formation.

    When can I drive?

    It is typical for surgeons to advise that patients only return to driving once they are no longer taking pain medication(s) and once they feel comfortable turning the head in all directions. Please ask your doctor prior to driving.

    When will I be able to return to work?

    This will depend on the nature of your job. People with labor intensive jobs may take longer to get back to work, while people with desk jobs may be able to return sooner. The amount of time can range anywhere from two to twelve weeks. Ask your doctor about the best plan for you to get back to work.

    Can I travel?

    In general, your surgeon will recommend waiting until you feel comfortable enough to travel. As always, ask your doctor what is best for you.

    How long will I have restricted activities?

    Many surgeons recommend that their patients wait twelve weeks before returning to normal activities. Please ask your doctor when you can resume normal activities, as every person is different.