Lumbar laminectomy, also known as spinal decompression, is a surgical procedure used to relieve nerve compression in the lumbar spine.
Due to various factors such as injury, narrowing of the spinal canal, tumors, or a herniated disc, pressure can increase on the nerve roots or spinal cord. Lumbar laminectomy surgery helps alleviate this pressure by removing part or all of a vertebral bone.
Who needs this surgery?
Lumbar laminectomy, also known as spinal decompression, is a procedure commonly performed on older individuals, especially those experiencing spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis is a condition caused by abnormal changes in the spine as people age, which results in an enlargement of the facet joints. These degenerated facet joints can exert pressure on nearby nerve roots, leading to pain and discomfort for the patient.
How is the Surgery done?
Before undergoing lumbar laminectomy surgery, the patient is administered general anesthesia. The procedure focuses on the posterior aspect of the spine. A 2 to 5-inch incision is made to access the surgical area. Once the incision is made, the surgeon removes the lamina to expose the nerve roots. The facet joints, which lie over the nerve roots, are then trimmed or undercut to create more space. This alleviates the persistent discomfort experienced by the patient in the lumbar region.
Number of Stay Days in the hospital
The patient needs to stay for about 5 days in the hospital.
Recovery and post-op care after the surgery
After surgery, doctors typically recommend that patients rest and avoid engaging in activities like heavy lifting, strenuous exercises, or stretching of the spinal muscles. However, it’s important for patients not to remain completely inactive. Post-operative care often includes physical therapy and medications to aid recovery. Regular follow-up appointments with doctors are also advised to monitor progress and ensure proper healing.
Risks and complications of the Surgery

• Bleeding
• Blood clot
• Infection
• Injury to nerve root or spinal cord

The success rate of The Lumbar Laminectomy
The success rate is approximately 97 – 98% for lumbar laminectomy.
Lumbar Laminectomy for Spine or Spinal Decompression cost in India are as follow