Like any medical treatment dealing with the spine, undergoing spinal surgery is a decision requiring much consideration. One would likely seek out details on whether surgery is necessary, how effective the surgery is, and how long the recovery process is expected to be. For cervical laminectomy, a surgery completed on the back of one’s neck, the recovery process is fairly quick and allows for movement very soon after surgery. With the help of Dr. Han Jo Kim, one of the best neck pain specialists in NJ, we are here to provide you with a safe procedure and prepare you for a smooth recovery.
What is Cervical Laminectomy?
A cervical laminectomy is a surgical procedure conducted on the back of one’s neck. Surgery is often not the first step taken, for pain medications and physical therapy are often attempted. The failure of these other methods leads to the consideration of surgery. This procedure is usually performed for one of the following medical reasons:
- To alleviate the pressure put on one’s spinal cord
- To alleviate the pressure on multiple spinal nerves in one’s neck
- Reduce instability of one’s cervical spine
Following this surgery, the patient should experience relief from compression and pain, protection of the spinal cords and nerves and prevention of deterioration. Discussing options for treatment with neck pain specialists in NJ, like Dr. Han Jo Kim, may help you decide if this surgery is the right option for you.
Preparing For Cervical Laminectomy With Our Neck Pain Specialists In NJ
Just like the essential nature of following recovery steps to ensure proper healing, preparing for this surgery is just as important, following every instruction given to you and asking questions when unsure is key in preparing for an important procedure.
Perhaps the most pressing step is to tell your doctors about every medicine you take, whether they be prescribed or over-the-counter. Some medicines may not be able to be taken before the procedure, so it is important to share this information early on. With this, letting your doctor know of any allergies is essential, for you may receive a new medication following the surgery.
As for the day of the procedure, you should not wear any makeup, nail polish, wigs, jewelry, contact lenses, glasses, or dentures. Knowing this ahead of time can help you feel more prepared and calm going into the day.
What Is The Recovery Time For Cervical Laminectomy?
After undergoing cervical laminectomy, the patient should experience a quick and easy recovery process, considering the delicate nature of spinal surgeries. A general timeline of this process is as follows:
- Hours after surgery: begin moving around and continue to increase activities during recovery, as tolerated
- 2-3 days after surgery: discharged from the hospital
- 4-6 weeks after surgery: follow-up visit with your surgeon and often begin physical therapy
- Six weeks after surgery: potentially wear a cervical neck collar up to this point
While there are many steps in this process, they are in place to prepare the patient for a successful recovery. Medical professionals and neck pain specialists in NJ, like Dr. Han Jo Kim, are here to support their patients along this process and want to ensure healing goes as planned. No two patients are to heal at the same rate, but the above timeline gives a general guide to cervical laminectomy recovery.
Alternate Recovery Times
As stated above, every patient will be on a different path to recovery. One situation that may cause this is if the patient also underwent a spinal fusion. This may be done after the laminectomy has been completed and creates a reliably steady spinal column. To do so, two or more vertebrae are connected using a bone graft. Sometimes additional instruments are used for support. Due to this additional step, the recovery process for these patients is often slightly extended. Those who underwent fusion often wear a firm cervical collar, differing from the softer version worn by those who did not have to have a fusion done.
Tips For Recovery
It is always most important to follow your surgeon’s specific directions following this procedure, and you should always ask before doing something you are unsure of. You should also reach out to your doctor immediately if something does not feel right. Reaching out to neck pain specialists in NJ, like Dr. Han Jo Kim, can bring you the assistance you need. We want you to be on the most comfortable and effective path to recovery possible, so addressing issues in a timely manner is key.
As you recover, here are some tips to help the healing process:
- Rest when tired
- Do not move heavy objects until further healed
- Take enough time off from work to properly heal
- Wash your wound and replace your bandages frequently
- Continue to be active
Contact The Best Neck Pain Specialists In NJ
Being one of the best neck pain specialists in NJ, Dr. Han Jo Kim is experienced in spinal surgeries and is equipped to discuss your spine concerns. To learn more and to book an appointment, contact us today.