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Has anyone had laminectomy then needed spinal fusion?

Spine Health | Last Active: Apr 23 5:53pm | Replies (31)

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bobcinem, no.
If there is enough strength in the bone, muscle and tendon a laminectomy can be a preferrable choice to fusion, because you retain aspects of motion.
Generally patients are cautioned that the procedure can cause instability, and instability that could require eventual fusion.
I meant to say, obliquely, that a surgeon can perform a laminectomy in the good faith that it will be stable. It isn't easy to determine in advance.
I would try laminectomy before fusion. And I would probably try for an artificial disc before fusion. There is also laminotomy, partial removal of the lamina.
Your surgeon will have the best idea of what will work most beneficially for you. But, since
(and unfortunately) our providers don't get omniscience with their medical degrees, second opinions are always wise.
I hope your surgery provides long term relief.

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Replies to "bobcinem, no. If there is enough strength in the bone, muscle and tendon a laminectomy can..."

Thank you so much for your reply! Yes, I got three opinions, and the third was just to do the laminectomy.. but of course there’s a chance for fusion later. This is the first I’ve heard about the idea of removing the disc instead of fusion! Thanks for that tip. I will look into that!
What I’m not sure of is just what ‘instability’ actually means in this case? Overall instability?Balance issues? If you could expound on that I would appreciate it! Thanks again!