Cervical Spine Surgery: Understanding the Procedure, Risks, and Recovery

Introduction

Cervical spine surgery is a surgical procedure that corrects the cervical spine’s structural issues. The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae located in the neck region, and these vertebrae support the head’s weight and enable its movement. The cervical spine also protects the spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

There are several reasons why someone might need cervical spine surgery, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spinal cord compression, and bone spurs. In this article, we will discuss the procedure, risks, and recovery process associated with cervical spine surgery.

Types of Cervical Spine Surgery

There are several types of cervical spine surgery, and the type of surgery a patient undergoes will depend on their specific condition. Some of the most common types of cervical spine surgery include:

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

This procedure is performed from the front of the neck, and it involves removing the herniated or damaged disc and fusing the adjacent vertebrae together. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease.

Cervical Disc Replacement

This procedure involves replacing the damaged or herniated disc with an artificial disc. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with one damaged or herniated disc.