A thoracolumbar laminectomy and fusion is performed through an incision on your mid- to lower back. This procedure involves fully or partially removing pieces of bone called spinous process and laminae that surround the spinal cord and/or nerves. This is done to enlarge the space for and to help relieve pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerves.
After the laminectomy is performed, natural or synthetic bone material can be added to help fuse the vertebrae. If successful, spinal fusion will typically take place in the weeks and months following surgery. In instances where there is instability, implants such as metal screws and rods can be added to help provide stability to the spine.*

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A more in depth look at the individual steps of this procedure as well as tips for preparing for and recovering from a laminectomy and fusion.