Journal of spinal disorders
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We report the development of a new laminoplasty for the thoracic and lumbar spine. In this method, after two or three laminae are subjected to en bloc laminectomy using a surgical air drill, median longitudinal incisions are made in the laminae from the ventral side with a microsurgical saw and then the resected laminae are put back in place, like pitching a tent. ⋯ This method is useful as a form of anatomical repair after laminectomy. Because it preserves the posterior element, it helps to prevent shrinkage of the laminectomy membrane mass and postoperative spinal column deformity.