I had a Corepectomy about 4 years ago and now will be having a Laminectomy in January. My question is anyone who has had a Laminectomy what can one expect in recovery. Pain levels and true recovery.

cervical laminectomy?

Cervical at C3 and C5 with fusion and hardware from C2 to C8.

There is some concern that the plate that was put in 4 years didn't fuse. Screws are backing out so some work to correct that if needed.

I had a cervical laminectomy done on Oct. 23. I think the thing that surprised me the most was the inability to use my arms after the surgery. Having the muscles in the back of your neck cut really effects the use of your arms. Getting in and out of a chair or bed was a real challenge. I also could not dress myself for the first week or so...same reasons. As far as pain goes I did alright on Tylenol #3 until the muscle spasms started...those about levelled me. If at all possible have some muscle relaxers on hand.

Button up tops are going to be a must for a week or so, you won't be able to lift your arms to get anything else on. I found that for the first couple of weeks I had to lay down a few times a day to take the pressure off of my neck or the spasms would get really bad. Its been a month for me now and I'm almost doing everything I did before. Still not driving, not comfortable with my range of motion yet....and have been told to lift nothing over 5 pounds for at least 3 months. I'm not sure if this is the norm, or if its because I had 4 level ACDF just a year ago.

You are definately going to need help at home for the first week or so at least. You'll need help with dressing, washing your hair, cooking...even a simple thing like unloading the dishwasher isn't an option...bending forward hurts!

If you have any more questions ask away and I'll help you as much as I can...this is all I can think of at the moment.
Misty

Thanks, seems similar to my anterior corpectomy but able to talk. I remember the spasms. Didn't have muscle relaxers. Sounds like a good idea.

I never thought about the arm issues and rebuilding those muscles.

Thanks...

One year ago I had ACDF at C5-6 which did not relieve symptoms. Two months later had laminectomies at C5-6 and 6-7 on the right and C5-6 on the left. My symptoms were gone approximately 3 months post-op. However, I encountered severe neck muscle spasms afterword. I tried massage therapy without relief. I strongly suggest that your surgeon order physical therapy after your surgery. The spasm were so intense that I could hardly hold my head up or turn it. As of today, the spasms continue and the arm pain and numbness is returning. Muscle relaxants were not affective either. I continue to take Neurontin which helps some. In an effort to help myself, I do a daily routine of upper body exercises using soup cans for weights. This seems to help. I wish you the best of luck. Learn what the risks and complications may be and what you may encounter in the future. Always be a well informed patient!