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Cervical Fusion

Cervical fusion surgery is performed for conditions like painful disc degeneration, herniated disc, radicular syndrome, stenosis, spondylosis, and myelopathy. The cervical fusion procedure is done either on the neck or spine. This neurosurgical procedure relieves pressure on the spinal cord or one or more nerve roots. 

UMMC offers minimally invasive cervical fusion surgery, which provides less blood loss and pain, a shorter hospital stay, and better postoperative outcomes when compared to open surgery. We have cutting-edge technology in terms of equipment as well as operating rooms. The doctors take into account the unique needs of the patient and provide personalized cervical fusion recovery plans. We offer complete preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative care.

Once a patient decides to have a cervical fusion surgery, various tests like medical examination, EKG, blood work, chest x-ray, neurological, and psychological examinations are performed. The doctor may suggest restricting aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines at least one week before the surgery. 

During the procedure, the neurosurgeon will make an incision on the front part of the neck. Fluoroscopy is performed for determining the correct levels to be operated, and the contents of the neck are retracted gently to view the spine. The disc tissue is removed, and a wedge of bone or a fusion cage is placed in the disc space. Usually, a plate is screwed on the operating segment to stabilize the operated area and hold the graft in place. The entire surgery will take about one to two hours.

Post-surgery the patient will be shifted to a recovery room for one and a half hours. Intravenous medication will be given for pain control. A brace or collar is provided to restrict bending and promote healing of the fused area. A set of exercises are recommended during discharge, and physical therapy is initiated after the first follow-up visit post-surgery. The hospital stay after surgery is usually for one to two days. The required medications and instructions are given during discharge. The recovery time post-surgery may vary depending on the extent of surgery, age, and health of an individual.