Laminotomy Facetectomy
Laminotomy Facetectomy - Related Videos
05:05
Laminotomy for Targeted Injection into the Lumbar Dorsal Root Ganglion in a Pig Model
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2025
Source: Unger, M. D., et al., Laminotomy for Lumbar Dorsal Root Ganglion Access and Injection in Swine. J. Vis. Exp. (2017)This video demonstrates a laminotomy procedure in an anesthetized pig to access the lumbar dorsal root ganglion for targeted neurotherapeutic delivery using convection-enhanced delivery.
09:00
Laminotomy for Lumbar Dorsal Root Ganglion Access and Injection in Swine
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Cited by 7 •
2017
We describe a method for laminotomy in swine that provides access to lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG) for intraganglionic injection. Injection progress is monitored intraoperatively and histologically confirmed up to 21 days after surgery. This protocol could be used for future preclinical studies involving DRG injection.
09:23
Surgical Technique for Spinal Cord Delivery of Therapies: Demonstration of Procedure in Gottingen Minipigs
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Cited by 24 •
2012
Short visual description of the surgical technique and device used for the delivery of (gene and cell) therapies into the spinal cord. The technique is demonstrated in the animal but is entirely translatable and currently being used for human application.
08:36
Lateral-PLIF for Lumbar Spinal Arthrodesis: A Detailed Step-By-Step Surgical Technique
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2026
Lateral-PLIF is an advanced posterior lumbar interbody fusion technique allowing safer cage insertion with minimal neural manipulation. This article outlines the step-by-step procedure, highlighting the benefits of the bilateral approach, optimal cage orientation, high fusion rates, and low complication risks, offering a promising alternative to traditional PLIF.
FAQs
Relief results from increasing the available space around neural structures. Removing part of the lamina can enlarge the spinal canal, while removing part or all of a facet joint can widen the neural foramen, the passageway where a nerve root exits. This reduces the bony restriction contributing to pressure and may address symptoms associated with spinal stenosis or foraminal narrowing.
The amount of facet joint removed affects how much space the surgeon can create and whether spinal stability may be affected. Limited removal may provide adequate decompression while preserving more of the joint. Substantial removal can create a need to consider spinal fusion, which may be added to help preserve stability after the decompression.
Bone is not the only potential source of narrowing. Thickened ligament or other compressive tissue may also occupy space within the spinal canal or neural foramen. When these tissues contribute to pressure, the surgeon may remove them along with the targeted bone. Addressing both types of obstruction can improve the amount of space available for the spinal cord or nerve root.
Clinicians may consider the procedure for spinal stenosis, foraminal narrowing, or nerve-root compression. These conditions can produce pain, numbness, or weakness when neural structures have insufficient space. The operation is therefore directed at a structural source of neurological symptoms rather than treating symptoms without changing the narrowed spinal passage.
The surgeon reaches the spine through a posterior approach, meaning access is made from the back. The targeted vertebral lamina and facet joint are then addressed to enlarge the restricted spinal canal or neural foramen. If present, thickened ligament or other compressive tissue may also be excised, tailoring the decompression to the structures producing the narrowing.
Fusion may be added when removing a substantial portion of a facet joint could compromise spinal stability. Its purpose in this setting is to help preserve stability after the necessary decompression. The decision depends on the extent of joint removal and the mechanical consequences expected from the operation, rather than being an automatic part of every procedure.
The procedure directly addresses anatomical narrowing affecting the spinal cord or nerve roots. Its clinical relevance is greatest when a patient’s pain, numbness, or weakness corresponds to conditions such as spinal stenosis, foraminal narrowing, or nerve-root compression. By enlarging the restricted passage, treatment is aimed at relieving pressure from a structural cause identified in the spine.