Laminoplasty for Cervical Spinal Cord Stimulator Implantation in Patients With Cervical Spondylosis and Fusion: A Technical Note

Background: Epidural spinal cord stimulator (SCS) implantation is a commonly used strategy for treating refractory neuropathic pain, but the literature on the technical aspects of cervical SCS surgery remains scarce. Degenerative cervical stenosis and prior fusion surgery are relatively frequent conditions in this population, and the optimal method for cervical lead placement among such patients has not been established. Decompressive laminectomy may be required for cervical SCS placement in the presence of spinal stenosis. However, extensive decompression may increase the rate of lead migration and destabilize the spine, especially when performed above an existing fusion