Laminectomy

Typically performed to alleviate pain from lumbar spinal stenosis, which is caused by degenerative changes that lead to the enlargement of the facet joints in the back of the vertebrae. The spine is approached through a 2-5 inch incision in the midline of the lower back, removing the lamina and allowing visualization of the nerve roots. The facet joints are then either undercut or trimmed to allow for more space for the nerve-roots.