Minimally invasive cervical fusion surgery is a state-of-the-art procedure aimed at relieving debilitating neck pain and cervical spine instability. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after the procedure so you can approach surgery with confidence and focus on achieving a smooth recovery.
When is Cervical Spine Fusion Surgery Recommended?
Minimally invasive cervical spine fusion may be recommended for conditions such as:
- Persistent neck pain
- Radicular pain that originates in your neck and travels down your arm
- Spinal instability due to degenerative disc disease
- Disc herniation
- Cervical stenosis.
Preparation and Procedure
Before the surgery, your medical team will conduct comprehensive diagnostics to tailor the procedure to your specific condition. On the day of surgery, you'll receive anesthesia, ensuring a pain-free experience. Your surgeon makes a small incision less than an inch long, which results in minimal scarring. Using specialized instruments and guided by real-time imaging, the surgeon removes any damaged disc or bone spurs that are causing pain.
Fusion and Healing
The core of the surgery involves fusing the affected vertebrae. After the removal of damaged tissue, a bone graft or a graft substitute is placed between the vertebrae, which will fuse the bones together over time. This fusion stabilizes the spine and alleviates pain. Post-surgery, you'll spend a short time in recovery before heading home, often on the same day.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from minimally invasive cervical fusion is generally faster than traditional surgery. You may experience some discomfort, but pain management strategies such as NSAIDs, and analgesics will be in place to help you cope. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in your rehabilitation, aiding in regaining strength and flexibility.
Long-term Outcomes
The success rate for this surgery is high. Most people return to their daily activities with newfound ease. According to research studies, patients typically report significant pain relief and improved mobility with relief of symptoms lasting for more than 10 years.1
The relief of pain and symptoms is within reach with minimally invasive cervical spine surgery. Book an appointment with us today to find out if this procedure is the right choice for you.
Dr. Bryan A. Fox is a Board-Certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery. He is an expert in minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and has performed thousands of spinal surgeries and taught several types of highly effective and innovative spine surgery procedures. Dr. Fox offers a wealth of experience to the team at Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center located in Suffolk, Harbour View, and Chesapeake, Virginia.
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