Our Summary

This study looked at how a surgical procedure known as extended laminectomy (EL) could affect spinal cord injury (SCI) caused by the shortening of the spinal column. Researchers performed different versions of this procedure on dogs and assessed the effects on things like nerve cell death, blood flow to the spinal cord, and the dogs’ neurological function.

The dogs had their spinal columns shortened at a specific point (the T13 segment), after which they underwent different types of surgery. Some dogs had a regular laminectomy, while others had more extensive surgery where additional lengths of bone (1, 1.5, or 2 “laminae”) were removed either 6 or 12 hours after the initial shortening.

The results showed that removing just one additional lamina didn’t do much to help the spinal cord, but removing two extra laminae seemed to make a big difference. The dogs who had two extra laminae removed 6 hours after the shortening saw the most improvement.

In conclusion, the researchers suggest that this type of surgery could be a potential treatment option for spinal cord injury caused by spinal shortening, as long as it’s done in a timely manner and enough of the bone is removed.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the extended laminectomy (EL) in this study?
  2. How did the removal of additional laminae affect dogs with spinal cord injury in the study?
  3. What were the conclusions of the research in terms of potential treatment for spinal cord injuries?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a spinal laminectomy that the procedure involves removing a portion of the lamina (the bony structure that covers the spinal canal) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. They may advise the patient to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including proper wound care, physical therapy, and avoiding strenuous activities to promote healing and prevent complications. The doctor may also discuss the potential risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as the expected outcomes and recovery timeline. It’s important for the patient to communicate any concerns or questions they have with their healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for spinal laminectomy include those with spinal cord compression due to conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, spinal tumors, or spinal injuries. Additionally, patients with symptoms such as severe back or leg pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking may also benefit from this procedure. Ultimately, the decision to undergo spinal laminectomy will depend on the specific condition and symptoms of each individual patient, as well as their overall health and medical history.

Timeline

Before the spinal laminectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of spinal cord compression, such as back pain, numbness or weakness in the limbs, and difficulty walking.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to confirm the presence of spinal cord compression.
  3. Patient and their healthcare team discuss treatment options, including the possibility of a spinal laminectomy.

After the spinal laminectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the spinal laminectomy surgery, during which a portion of the lamina (the bony arch of the vertebra) is removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
  2. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort following the surgery, which can be managed with medication and physical therapy.
  3. Over time, the patient’s symptoms of spinal cord compression, such as weakness or numbness, should improve as the spinal cord is no longer being compressed.
  4. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a spinal laminectomy and why is it recommended for me?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a spinal laminectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery process following a spinal laminectomy?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the procedure?
  5. What are the expected outcomes and success rates for a spinal laminectomy in my specific case?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  7. How experienced are you in performing spinal laminectomies?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  9. How long will the surgery take and will I need to stay in the hospital afterward?
  10. Are there any specific post-operative instructions or restrictions that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Ji L, Wang S, Lan B, Lv M, Li J, Huang Y, Huang S, Liu S. Journal: J Neurotrauma. 2022 Aug;39(15-16):1039-1049. doi: 10.1089/neu.2021.0439. Epub 2022 Mar 30. PMID: 35229653