Long Island Spine Surgeon – Cervical Laminectomy

The American Chiropractic Association lists plenty of ways to have good posture while standing, sitting, and lying down. Practicing good posture can prevent long-term problems not only in your back but the rest of your body. After all, the spine is the central point of the nervous system. However, certain treatments may not work for people, and surgery may wind up being the best option. A cervical laminectomy can be done for those suffering from certain neck issues. You can trust New York Orthopaedic Spinal Associates, some of the top spine surgeons Long Island, to ease your spinal troubles. 

Who Qualifies?

Those who suffer from cervical radiculopathy, cervical spondylotic myelopathy, or cervical stenosis with myelopathy can qualify. These three conditions share traits of pain, weakness, or a tingling feeling within the neck area due to the narrowing of the spinal canal. 

Alternative methods of treatment, such as a neck brace, medication, and physical therapy should be considered prior to this procedure. By talking with your spine surgeon in Nassau County, your doctor can determine if a cervical laminectomy is an option for you.

How to Prepare for a Cervical Laminectomy

If you qualify for a cervical laminectomy, a spine surgeon in Nassau County will advise you to follow these steps:

• Ask any questions to your doctor regarding any changes in your health
• Write down any medications you are taking
• Tell your doctor of any allergies
• Remove any metal from your body
  • Ex: earrings, jewelry, or any other piercings
• Remove nail polish or acrylic nails
• Remove dentures, contact lenses, or glasses
• Be prepared if you are staying overnight

Procedure

In a cervical laminectomy, the lamina, a small piece in the top of the spine, is extracted by making a cut along the center of the back. This creates more room for the surrounding nerves. There is no need for a replacement piece. Simultaneously, your doctor, one of the top spine surgeons Long Island, may choose to perform a foraminotomy or a spinal fusion during the procedure if necessary.

Recovery Outcome

All or mostly all of the patient’s pain should be relieved within a short stay at the hospital following the procedure. A neck brace can help position the neck in the appropriate way, and the patient will start physical therapy to gain muscle strength. Walking is suggested within the same day of the surgery.

A spine surgeon in Nassau County will advise you to avoid any strenuous activity for the next few weeks, especially anything that puts pressure on the neck. People usually return to work within 3 months.  

When you visit one of the top spine surgeons on Long Island, they will schedule a follow-up visit approximately 4-6 weeks after the surgery. 

How can the top spine surgeons on Long Island help me?

If you feel you qualify for a cervical laminectomy, look no further than the New York Orthopaedic Spinal Associates. We guarantee you will be placed in the best hands of the spine surgeon in Nassau County specialists. When you contact us, we will be happy to help you with any questions.