Postlaminectomy kyphosis. Causes and surgical management.

Postlaminectomy instability of the cervical spine can be managed either anteriorly or posteriorly. The posterior procedures that have been described are best performed at the time of the original decompressive procedure. Thus, the development of a kyphotic deformity is prevented. Generally, it is technically easier to achieve anterior stabilization and arthrodesis if a postlaminectomy kyphosis develops.