[Reconstruction instead of resection: laminotomy and laminoplasty]

Spinal instability and deformity have to be kept in mind when performing laminectomies. The procedure described (laminotomy) results in a stable bony reconstruction of the spinal canal, which in addition may be enlarged (laminoplasty): Laminotomy is performed by means of an oscillating saw just medial of the pedicles, preserving the yellow and interspinous ligaments. The laminotomy specimen is removed en bloc. It can be refixed by means of vitallium plates, bridging the corresponding laminae and pedicles.