What medical procedure involves the removal of spinal arch?

The medical procedure that involves the removal of the spinal arch is laminectomy. This surgical operation entails the excision of the lamina, which is a part of the vertebra that creates the arch structure of the spine. The purpose of a laminectomy is often to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots that can be caused by conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. By removing the lamina, the surgeon creates more space within the spinal canal, which can alleviate pain and improve mobility for patients suffering from these issues.

In contrast, arthroscopy refers to a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine and treat joint problems, while cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, and appendectomy involves the removal of the appendix. Each of these procedures targets different anatomical structures and conditions, making them distinct from laminectomy, which specifically addresses issues related to the spine.