laminectomy /lam′inek″təmē/ [L, lamina + Gk, ektomē, excision] , surgical removal of the bony arches of one or more vertebrae. It is performed to treat compression fractures, dislocations, herniated nucleus pulposus, and cord tumors and to stimulate the spinal cord. With the patient under general anesthesia and prone to eliminate lordosis, reduce venous congestion, and keep the abdomen free, the laminae are removed, and the underlying problem is corrected. Spinal fusion with cages, rods, screws, and/or bone graft is used to stabilize the spine if several laminae are removed. If the procedure is a cervical laminectomy, the patient is observed for signs of respiratory distress caused by cord edema. Motor function and sensation in the extremities are evaluated every 2 to 4 hours for 48 hours. The dressing is examined frequently for hemorrhage or leakage of cerebrospinal fluid. The patient is taught to logroll without twisting the spine or hips. −laminectomize, v.
