Postlaminectomy kyphosis.

Abstract

Postlaminectomy kyphosis is a rare but potentially catastrophic complication of laminectomy performed to treat cervical myelopathy. The best strategy for prevention is awareness of the sagittal plane before surgery in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy. An understanding of the biomechanical forces placed on the cervical spine, the normal structures contributing to stability and the underlying pathologic process helps in the prevention and ultimate treatment of postlaminectomy kyphosis. This is a review of the risk factors, biomechanics, work-up, and surgical treatment of postlaminectomy kyphosis.