Posterior approach to the degenerative cervical spine

Eur Spine J. 2003 Oct;12 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):S195-201. doi: 10.1007/s00586-003-0599-7. Epub 2003 Aug 26.

Abstract

Laminoplasty has been gradually accepted as a treatment for choice for cervical compression myelopathy. The historical perspective of laminoplasty is described. The aims of laminoplasty are to expand the spinal canal, to secure spinal stability, to preserve the protective function of the spine, and to preserve spinal mobility. Laminoplasty is indicated in myelopathic patients with a developmentally narrow spinal canal or multiple-level involvement combined with a relatively narrow canal. Several laminoplasty techniques and supplementary techniques are described, together with expected outcomes and complications of surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cervical Vertebrae / pathology
  • Cervical Vertebrae / surgery
  • Decompression, Surgical* / adverse effects
  • Decompression, Surgical* / methods
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy* / adverse effects
  • Laminectomy* / methods
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Spinal Cord Compression / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome