Herniated Cervical Disc Surgery

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Herniated cervical disc surgery is performed in order to alleviate the compression of the spinal nerves in the cervical region of the spine. It is performed when other therapies have not provided relief or when there is significant cord compression.

What is it?  

Herniated cervical disc surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed in order to alleviate spinal compression and pressure caused by herniation in the cervical area of the spine. This procedure removes the areas that are causing the spinal pressure and repairs the damaged areas. This surgery can be done in a minimally invasive fashion; however, the open Herniated Cervical Disc surgery is more common.

What should I do to prepare? 

You should consult your medical professional about the exact preparation plan for your surgery. This surgery often involves the use of general anesthesia, in which case you should follow standard protocol before having surgery involving the use of general anesthesia. This includes refraining from eating or drinking the night before surgery and avoiding certain medications.

What happens during the process? 

During the more commonly used open procedure, an incision will be made at the front of the neck. The entire affected disc is removed and is replaced by a bone graft. This bone graft may be reinforced in place by pins or screws. The vertebrae will heal over the bone graft over time. In the minimally invasive procedure, the incision is cut on the back of the neck, and only part of the disc is removed.

What are the risks and potential complications? 

Common symptoms following surgery may include pain, irritation, infection, bleeding, inflammation, and difficulty swallowing. More severe and rare complications may include leaking spinal fluid, and damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots.

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