Cervical laminectomy and lateral mass fusion is a surgical procedure used to relieve compression on the spinal cord in cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy and OPLL (Ossified Posterior Longitudinal Ligament) associated myelopathy. This procedure is necessary when there is an abnormal bone alignment, such as kyphosis, spondylolisthesis, or instability. It involves the complete removal of the lamina of the cervical bone, followed by the fixation of the spine with screws inserted into the lateral mass. The screws are then connected using rods in a lordosis curvature and locked in place.
Dr. Ramachandran, a renowned spine surgeon, routinely performs this complex surgery with an IONM (Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring) and a microscope, making it a safer option for patients who are able to walk the same day as their surgery. This procedure has shown to be effective in relieving symptoms and improving mobility for patients suffering from spinal cord compression.
