​​RESECTION OF SPINAL TUMOR

Laminectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the lamina, the back portion of the vertebral body that covers the spinal cord. For patients with spinal tumors, this surgery is sometimes necessary if the tumor has compromised the spinal canal. Removal of this piece gives the spinal canal more room and relieves the pressure from the spinal cord and nerves. The hole through which the nerve passes can be enlarged to further relieve pressure. Using microsurgical techniques, the tumor is then carefully separated from the nearby nerves and removed. Sometimes, a piece of bone (bone graft), metal cage, or screws may be used to strengthen the area that was decompressed. Depending upon the type of tumor that is removed, further treatment with radiation or chemotherapy may be indicated. Patients usually require physical therapy to optimize spinal mobility after spine surgery.