This procedure involves an incision in the spinal cord and is often necessary when removing spinal cord tumors. Alternatively, myelotomy may be a procedure unto itself when considering treatment of lower extremity or pelvic pain secondary to cancer. Although this surgery has largely been superseded by morphine pump implantation, it remains a useful consideration in some patients. A myelotomy is performed through a thoracic laminectomy. A precise incision is made with the intent of interrupting the specific fiber tracts that mediate pain.