Cervical laminoplasty is a surgical procedure that is performed on the back or posterior part of the neck to alleviate spinal cord compression caused by conditions such as spondylosis, OPLL, and spinal cord tumors. This procedure involves opening the lamina, a bony structure that protects the spinal cord, by cutting it on one side and thinning it on the other. This creates more space for the spinal cord, similar to opening a door. The thinned-out lamina acts as a hinge while the cut lamina is secured with mini plates to prevent it from closing. This technique has an advantage over complete removal of the lamina as it reduces muscle scarring and adhesions on the spinal cord.
Dr. Ramachandran specializes in using advanced tools like a microscope and bone scalpel under neural monitoring to perform cervical laminoplasty with minimal blood loss, ensuring a safer spine surgery for patients. This procedure can greatly improve the symptoms of cervical myelopathy and help patients regain their mobility and quality of life.