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Laminectomy, facetectomy, and foraminotomy are surgical procedures performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, cauda equina, and nerve roots. These procedures are often necessary when there is spinal or lateral recess stenosis, which can cause pain, weakness, or numbness due to nerve compression. The term 'laminectomy' refers to the excision of the lamina, the bony structure that forms the posterior part of the vertebral arch. This procedure is typically performed in conjunction with posterior interbody arthrodesis, which is a type of spinal fusion aimed at stabilizing the spine. The laminectomy allows for adequate decompression of the spinal structures, ensuring that the spinal cord and nerve roots are not compressed during the fusion process. The surgical approach involves making an incision over the affected area of the spine, retracting the surrounding tissues, and carefully removing the lamina and any obstructive bone or tissue to create more space for the spinal components. This combined approach is crucial for patients who require both decompression and stabilization of the spine at the same vertebral segment.
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