Cervical Laminoplasty: Indications, Surgical Considerations, and Clinical Outcomes. Issue 7 (1st April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cho, Samuel K.; Kim, Jun S.; Overley, Samuel C.; Merrill, Robert K.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Volume 26:Issue 7(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-04-01
• Subjects: cervical laminoplasty -- clinical outcomes -- indications -- myelopathy -- ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Joint Diseases -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery; Orthopedics; Periodicals; 616.7005
• DOI: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-16-00242
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1067-151X

Abstract

Abstract : Cervical laminoplasty was initially described for the management of cervical myelopathy resulting from multilevel stenosis secondary to ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. The general concepts are preservation of the dorsal elements, preservation of segmental motion, and expansion of the spinal canal via laminar manipulation. No clear evidence suggests that laminoplasty is superior to either posterior laminectomy or anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion. However, laminoplasty has its own advantages, indications, and complications. Surgeons have refined the technique to decrease complication rates and improve efficacy. Recent efforts have highlighted less invasive approaches that are muscle sparing and associated with less postoperative morbidity. Although the long-term outcomes suggest that cervical laminoplasty is safe and effective, continued research on the development of novel modifications that decrease common complications, such as C5 nerve palsy, axial neck pain, and loss of lordosis, is required.