Cervical Spine Conditions
The cervical spine refers to the seven vertebrae in the neck. Cervical spine problems can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. Dr. Ferachi specializes in treating a range of cervical spine conditions using both conservative and surgical approaches.
Common conditions treated include:
- Spinal cord impingement: Compression on the spine which causes pain, weakness, or numbness in the hands, legs, or arms
- Cervical disc herniation: A disc that has bulged or ruptured, pressing on nearby nerves
- Cervical stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, causing nerve compression
- Cervical radiculopathy: A pinched nerve root in the neck causing radiating arm pain
Surgical Options
Anterior Cervical Discectomy
A cervical disc herniation can be removed with a procedure known as anterior cervical discectomy. During this procedure, the herniation is removed through the front of the neck in order to relieve spinal cord or nerve pressure, stopping pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling associated with these conditions.
To close the space left when the disc is removed and to restore the spine to its original height, patients have two options:
- Artificial cervical disc replacement: A disc implanted between two vertebrae to replace the damaged disc, preserving motion
- Anterior cervical fusion: The space is filled with a bone graft, and the vertebrae are fused together for stability
Decompression Surgery
Decompression surgery is performed to relieve pain caused by pinched nerves (neural impingements). This may involve removing bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or other tissue pressing on the nerve.
Spinal Instrumentation
Spinal instrumentation refers to surgical procedures to implant stainless steel, titanium, or non-metallic devices into the spine to provide stability and support during the healing and fusion process.
Risks of Cervical Surgery
Although cervical disc surgery is generally safe, infection, excessive bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia are risks associated with this surgery. There is also the possibility of damage to nearby nerves, spinal cord, esophagus, and vocal cords. These complications happen rarely, and Dr. Ferachi will discuss all risks and benefits with you prior to surgery.
Is Cervical Surgery Right for You?
If you are experiencing neck and back pain and think you may be a candidate for cervical spine surgery, request an appointment online or call Dr. Ferachi's office today. Surgery is generally considered only after conservative treatments have been exhausted.