Clinical Outcome of Laminoplasty in Cervical Myelopathy.

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of laminoplasty in terms of improvement in the Japanese Orthopedics Association (JOA) score in cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Study Design: Descriptive study.

Place And Duration Of Study: Department of Neurosurgery, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, from June 2014 to October 2016.

Methodology: All patients having CSM were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively by JOA score and radiological findings. Preoperative X-rays of cervical spine were done to rule out kyphotic deformity. CT scan and MRI of cervical spine were obtained preoperatively to assess the pathology. Single-door laminoplasty with modified trauma plates were applied in each case by making the hinge over the right side. Digital cervical spine X-rays and CT scans with axial reconstruction were obtained postoperatively in all patients, ensuring spinal canal widening and stability.

Results: Among the 36 patients, 24 were males and 12 females, age ranging from 35 to 80 years. All the patients did extremely well with marked improvement in the symptomatology. The JOA scored improved in 32 patients, remained static in three patients and one patient had slight deterioration, which later on improved. Three patients developed postoperative kyphotic deformity, which settled in three months. Postoperative radiology showed significant increase in the axial diameter of spine.

Conclusion: Cervical laminoplasty remains an effective method for posterior decompression of spine. The most promising approach to cervical myelopathy ought to take into account both the features of patients and disease, as well as the competency and skills of the surgeon.