Spinal Cord Tumour Removal (via Laminectomy)

Tumours of the spinal column can be in the vertebral body or in the spinal meninges or spinal cord. Most can be removed through a laminectomy as described.

The patient is placed under general anaesthetic for this procedure and spinal cord functioning is monitored throughout the surgery. An incision is made over the tumour site and all soft tissues are dissected to create clear visualisation of the spine. The lamina is removed in order to access the spinal canal. Microsurgical equipment is used to cut the tumour from the surrounding tissue. All internal incisions are carefully sutured closed and a bandage is placed over the external wound. A specimen of the tumour will be sent for pathological testing as a precautionary measure.