Myelopathy Treatments

Typically a result of the natural aging process, myelopathy is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, causing compression of the spinal cord. Discomfort, reduced mobility, and other effects associated with this disorder can make work and recreational activity difficult. At the Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons offer the most advanced techniques available to address this concern and to alleviate pain. During your initial consultation, we will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs and optimized to achieve the best result possible.

Pain and weakness stemming from myelopathy can reduce your quality of life, but we can help.

Myelopathy Procedures

Since the condition stems from a narrowing of the spinal canal, myelopathy is most commonly treated using a surgical approach. However, we may recommend non-surgical methods initially to help alleviate discomfort. If surgery is advised, our skilled orthopaedists will utilize state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques to relieve pressure on the cord and reduce the risk of further compression. There are a number of modalities available, and the right one for you will depend on your spinal alignment, the location of the concern, and other factors unique to you.

Non-Surgical: In some cases, non-surgical treatment options may provide relief from pain caused by myelopathy, including physical therapy, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and oral steroids or injections.

Laminectomy: To reduce compression, a small piece of the lamina (the bone that shields the back of the spinal cord) will be removed. This approach is more commonly used if the concern is located on the neck (cervical spine) or the lower back (lumbar spine).

Laminoplasty: To expand the spinal canal area, laminoplasty is performed to lift the lamina and secure it with titanium plates in a position that offers a wider opening. Additionally, any thickened ligaments will be removed.

Discectomy: A herniated disc that causes myelopathy can be removed during partial or full discectomy or microdiscectomy. Part of the lamina will be removed to gain access to the affected disk and remove a portion or all of it. In a minimally invasive microdiscectomy, microscopes are used to enhance viewing of the area and reduce the size of the incisions needed.

Corpectomy: A more advanced procedure, corpectomy involves removing the vertebral bone and neighboring discs that have been damaged. They are then replaced with bone grafts and, in certain cases, titanium plates and screws to attain proper spinal alignment and provide long-lasting support.

If you have additional questions, please contact our office today. Our friendly and knowledgeable medical team will provide additional information or help you schedule a consultation.