Intermediate
Technical
IVT
laminotomy
Surgical removal of a small portion of the lamina to decompress neural structures while preserving spinal stability.
Full Definition
A surgical procedure involving partial removal of the lamina, the posterior portion of the vertebra that forms the roof of the spinal canal. Unlike laminectomy which removes the entire lamina, laminotomy preserves most of the posterior spinal elements to maintain stability. This technique is commonly used to treat spinal stenosis while minimizing postoperative instability. The procedure can be performed unilaterally or bilaterally depending on the pathology.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from laminectomy (complete removal) and laminoplasty (hinged opening).
In Context
- "The surgeon performed a bilateral laminotomy to decompress the central canal stenosis." — operative report
- "Laminotomy offers adequate decompression with less risk of postoperative instability compared to complete laminectomy." — clinical review
Also known as
partial laminectomy
Don't confuse with
laminectomy
laminoplasty