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What post-operative complications may arise following a lumbar laminectomy?

User Erlaunis
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Final answer:

Following a lumbar laminectomy, potential complications include infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury, leakage of spinal fluid, and pain necessitating further surgery. Additional risks specific to spine surgeries for disc or curvature disorders can also arise.

Step-by-step explanation:

Post-operative complications following a lumbar laminectomy can occur, given the complexity of spinal surgeries. Some likely complications of this treatment method include infection at the site of surgery, bleeding, blood clots, nerve injury leading to weakness, numbness or paralysis, leakage of spinal fluid, and sometimes instability or pain at the operated site that might require further surgery. Moreover, scar tissue can form and may lead to persistent back pain and leg pain. Additionally, surgical treatments for disorders like herniated discs, sciatica, kyphosis, lordosis, and scoliosis which affect the curvature and integrity of the spine carry their own sets of unique risks and potential post-operative complications. These conditions underline the importance of the vertebral column and intervertebral discs in maintaining spine health, with deviations or damage potentially causing significant distress and requiring interventions like a lumbar laminectomy.

User Dimitar Nestorov
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