Definition

1. Noun:
   • A surgical procedure to remove the lamina: A laminectomy is an operation where the lamina (the bony arch forming the roof of the spinal canal) of one or more vertebrae is removed. This is typically done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The patient underwent a laminectomy to alleviate the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
  • After the laminectomy, the surgeon was able to access and repair the herniated disc.
  • A successful laminectomy can significantly reduce back and leg pain.

Advanced Usage

• "to perform a laminectomy": to carry out this specific surgical operation.
  • The neurosurgeon will perform a laminectomy tomorrow morning.
• "to require a laminectomy": to need this operation as a medical necessity.
  • The severity of the nerve compression may require a laminectomy.

Variants and Related Words

• Laminotomy (n): A less invasive surgical procedure where only a portion of the lamina is removed, often creating a small window.
  • The surgeon opted for a laminotomy instead of a full laminectomy.

Synonyms

• Spinal decompression surgery: A broader term for surgical procedures, including laminectomy, aimed at relieving pressure on spinal structures.

Noun

1. surgical removal of the bony arches on one or more vertebrae