An anatomical portion of a vertebra. For each vertebra, two lamina connect the pedicles to the spinous process as part of the neural arch.

Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The device that produces a focused beam of light at a defined wavelength that can vaporize tissue. In surgery, lasers can be used to operate on small areas without damaging delicate surrounding tissue.

Situated away from the midline of the body.

A band of flexible, fibrous connective tissue that is attached at the end of a bone near a joint. The main function of a ligament is to attach bones to one another, to provide stability of a joint, and to prevent or limit some joint motion.

An abnormal increase in the normal lordotic curvature of the lumbar spine.

A non-medical term signifying pain in the lumbar region.

The lower part of the spine between the thoracic region and the sacrum. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae.