Laminectomy

  I am scheduled for a micro lumbar laminectomy on the 17th of December for a ruptured disc at L4-5.  I am just wondering about the procedure itself.  Does this require a general anesthesia or a spinal block?  Is there going to be any tubes inserted in my mouth?(I have always heard bad things about that) Does it require being catheterized?  These are all of the things I am worried about and I do not want to worry if there is no need.  Thank you for your time.
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Dear Cynthia,
Your concerns are understandable.  This kind of surgery can be done without general anesthesia, but most surgeons would prefer to do it under general anesthesia.  General anesthesia does require a tube to be inserted into your mouth to control respirations while you are asleep.  A bladder catheter is usually not necessary for a procedure that takes only an hour or two, as in your case.
Speak to your surgeon about his plans for anesthesia and whether he routinely uses a bladder catheter.  He will have the final say in such matters.
Good luck.