- This surgery is done from the back of the neck. The procedure is intended to make more space for the spinal cord to relieve the pressure caused by narrowing due to spinal stenosis. One side of the lamina (the roof of the spinal canal that houses the spinal cord) is cut completely and the other side partially, allowing the lamina to open up like a door. The flap of the lamina that is open is kept in the open position by small mini plates.