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Neck pain and neurological compression following cervical laminectomy are common after the procedure. Neck pain can be caused by several factors, including trauma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or a tumour. Surgical stabilisation is often required to relieve the symptoms. Other treatments include anticonvulsants, pain medications, and membrane-stabilising agents. Pregabalin is one such drug. Ketamine infusions are also sometimes recommended in specific circumstances.
Spinal cord stimulation
If you are suffering from chronic pain, spinal cord stimulation might be the right treatment for you. This type of treatment is used to alleviate pain that originates in the neck, lower back, arm, face, and head. The pain is caused by neuropathic nerve damage or injury. It also helps patients who experience increased pain in response to light touches or painful stimuli. Patients may be candidates for spinal cord stimulation because they have not responded well to conventional pain medications.
The procedure has two stages: a trial and permanent implantation. During the trial period, an external controller sends electrical pulses to electrodes located in the spinal cord. The electrodes are placed through a spinal needle under local anesthesia. The patient can confirm the placement of the electrodes when they awaken. The outside end of the electrode is then secured at the skin level. The trial is performed for about a week, after which the permanent system is implanted.
Treatments For Cervical Post Laminectomy Syndrome
Radiofrequency neurotomy
A radiofrequency neurotomy is an outpatient procedure for patients suffering from cervical post laminectomy syndrome. Patients are required to wear a hospital gown and are given an intravenous line to administer medication during the procedure. The needles are inserted into the affected nerves using radiofrequency technology. The procedure is not recommended for patients who are taking chronic blood-thinning medications because they can cause adverse reactions.
Although this procedure is highly effective for the pain caused by the surgery, it is not a cure for the condition. In fact, studies have shown conflicting results. Some patients experience only modest pain relief while others have pain that lasts for months. Radiofrequency neurotomy may not completely eliminate the pain. It must target the nerves that cause the pain to be effective. Although the procedure is not a cure for cervical post laminectomy syndrome, it may help patients live a pain-free life.
Platelet Rich Plasma
A treatment using platelet rich plasma (PRP) for cervical post laminectomy syndrome is a powerful way to treat the symptoms of cervical post laminectomy syndrome. This treatment uses your own blood to deliver concentrated platelets directly to the injured area. This process will enhance your body’s own healing response, restoring your quality of life. A qualified physician will perform this treatment using refined techniques. During the treatment, a small sample of blood is collected and the concentrated platelets are then injected into the area of pain.
The treatment is very effective for cervical post laminectomy syndrome, but some patients will experience some discomfort after the procedure. Generally, patients will receive pain medication and cold compresses to relieve discomfort. They will also be directed to stop taking anti-inflammatory medications after the procedure. Once the treatment is complete, patients can return to normal activities. Exercises are not recommended for the first two weeks, as it will only increase the risk of epidural fibrosis.
Treatments For Cervical Post Laminectomy Syndrome
Pain management plan
Doctors who practice the use of a multifaceted pain management plan for cervical post laminectomy syndrome treat the patient in a variety of ways. Although the cause of the condition is not known, treatment options include medications, exercise, and other treatments. In addition to a multifaceted approach, the patient should seek the help of a pain management specialist. The doctor will determine the exact cause of the pain and recommend the most effective treatment options.
X-rays of the neck and other tests will be conducted to diagnose the condition. A CT scan and an MRI may also be performed, as necessary. Sometimes a ‘dynamic’ X-ray is performed to identify the instability of the cervical spine. Nerve blocks and conduction studies may also be carried out to clarify the diagnosis. Ultimately, your doctor will prescribe a treatment plan for cervical post laminectomy syndrome based on your specific symptoms and medical history.
