Laminectomy and laminotomy are surgeries done to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and/or spinal nerve roots by removing all or part of the lamina. The lamina is the thin part of the bones that make up the spine (vertebrae ) that forms a protective arch over the spinal cord.

Age-related changes in the spine may narrow the opening through which the spinal cord runs (spinal canal), and the spinal cord and/or nerve roots may become squeezed. Laminotomy removes part of the lamina; laminectomy removes all of the lamina on selected vertebra and also may remove thickened ligament tissue. The choice of procedure depends on the location and severity of the spinal problem that requires treatment. Reducing pressure on the nerve roots often can relieve leg or arm pain and allow resumption of normal daily activities.