How many vertebral levels below should the laminectomy be performed when placing a Penta paddle at T8?

When placing a Penta paddle at the T8 vertebral level, it’s essential to consider the anatomical and functional relevance of the surrounding spinal structures. The correct approach is to perform the laminectomy 1-2 vertebral levels below T8, typically at T9-T10. This allows adequate coverage and access for stimulation of the desired nerve roots while minimizing potential complications.

Placing the laminectomy too far below the T8 level can lead to inadequate stimulation of the targeted dermatomes and may affect the overall effectiveness of the procedure. Conversely, performing the laminectomy at the same vertebral level (0 levels below) or above T8 would not provide proper access for the placement of the paddle. Ensuring the laminectomy is performed within the right range allows the neurostimulator to effectively manage pain or other conditions while maintaining the structural integrity of the spinal column.