How is a complete removal of the lamina described?

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure specifically aimed at the complete removal of the lamina, which is the bony arch that covers the spinal canal. The primary purpose of a laminectomy is to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, usually due to conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tumors. This procedure allows for more space within the spinal canal, enhancing the patient's mobility and reducing pain.

In contrast, a laminotomy refers to the partial removal of the lamina, allowing for some access to the spinal canal while preserving a portion of the lamina. A hemilaminectomy involves the removal of only one side of the lamina. Surgical lysis typically refers to the surgical release or cutting of adhesions or scar tissue, which doesn't involve the complete removal of the lamina itself. Thus, the definition and purpose of laminectomy make it the appropriate choice for describing a complete removal of the lamina.