Cervical spine surgery includes different procedures focused on fixing problems in the neck region of the spine. These surgeries can help relieve pain from nerve root compression and fix spinal deformities. Two common types of cervical spine surgeries are cervical spine fusion surgery such as an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF Surgery) and cervical disc replacement or arthroplasty. These surgeries can really help people who are dealing with degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, nerve pain, numbness, and other issues with their spine.
Cervical Spine Fusion Surgery
In cervical spine fusion surgery, two or more bones in the neck are joined together. This surgery helps stabilize the spine and lessen long-term neck pain caused by damaged discs and bone spurs in the spinal canal. During this surgery, a doctor removes the damaged disc, replaces it with a bone graft, and secures it using plates, screws, or other devices.
The main goal of spinal fusion is to connect the vertebrae to reduce pain, ease pressure on pinched nerves, and fix alignment issues. Over time, the bone graft helps the bones join into one solid piece.
During anterior cervical surgery, like ACDF, the surgeon accesses the spine from the front of the neck. This approach allows the surgeon to directly reach the spinal discs. After removing the damaged disc, the empty space is filled with a bone graft, which is held in place with devices like plates and screws to ensure the fusion is successful and lasts a long time.
These surgeries help with several problems that can cause pain, limit function, injure nerves, and reduce quality of life.  For example degenerative disc disease, bone spurs that make the spinal canal narrower, and herniated discs that press on nerve roots.
Cervical Arthroplasty Surgery
Cervical arthroplasty, or disc replacement surgery, is a newer way to treat spine issues. It involves replacing a damaged cervical disc with an artificial one to keep movement at the disc space.
Unlike fusion, which makes the area stable but limits movement, disc replacement helps keep the neck flexible. It prevents too much stress on the spine segments next to the surgery site, which can happen after fusion and lead to more wear and tear.
By maintaining natural neck movements, cervical arthroplasty can lead to a faster recovery and decrease the risk of problems in the spine segments next to the surgery area. It’s a good choice for those who want to keep as much normal neck movement as possible after surgery.
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Cervical Spine Surgery Recovery
Recovery from cervical spine surgery can be different for each person, but it usually takes several weeks after surgery of healing and careful activity management. Right after surgery, taking pain medication can help ease discomfort while the healing begins. Physical therapy is important during recovery. It helps patients slowly get back their ability to move and strengthens their neck muscles, all without harming the surgical site.
During this time, it’s really important to listen to what your spine surgeon says and avoid things that could strain your neck. This means no heavy lifting, sudden movements, or anything else that might affect the healing of the spinal fusion.
Post-Operative Care and Long-Term Outcomes
After the first few weeks following surgery, the focus changes to long-term healing and getting used to changes in how the spine moves. Physical therapy remains a key part of recovery, helping to bring back flexibility and strength. Patients also learn new ways to handle daily tasks that help the spinal fusion last forever.
Regular check-ups with the spine surgeon are important to keep an eye on how the spinal fusion is healing. Over time, most people feel less pain and see their quality of life get better. The effectiveness of cervical spine surgery requires choosing the right patients, the surgeon’s skills, and the patient following the care instructions after the surgery.
Why Choose Neurosurgeons of New Jersey for your Cervical Spine Surgery?
Neurosurgeons of New Jersey has been recognized as the #1 Surgical Practice for Neurosurgery in the state, reflecting our commitment to excellence in patient care across our 11 convenient locations throughout New Jersey. The practice’s team of neurosurgeons, recipients of numerous prestigious awards, are dedicated to advancing the field of neurosurgery. We participate in and work with a wide range of health insurance networks, including Aetna, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Oxford/United Healthcare, Cigna, Personal Injury Protection (PIP)/No-Fault (specifically for New Jersey motor vehicle accidents), the Empire Plan (NYSHIP), Medicare, NJ Medicaid, and Workers’ Compensation. Importantly, even if your insurance is not listed, you may still be eligible for coverage, ensuring broad access to top-tier medical services.
Our accomplished Ridgewood Spine Team helps patients regain their mobility and improve their quality of life. Additionally, in severe cases, they perform life-saving procedures that stop permanent damage to nerve roots or the spinal cord.
Conclusion
Cervical spine surgery, like cervical disc replacement and ACDF, is a good choice for people who have ongoing neck pain, disc deterioration, arthritis in the neck, herniated discs, nerve pain, or unusual alignment or shapes of their cervical spine. These surgeries help by making the spine stable and easing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, which can greatly improve a person’s quality of life.
If you’re thinking about cervical spine surgery, talk to a board certified spine surgeon to find out the best surgery options for your condition and what you can expect afterward. With the right plan and careful care after surgery, many patients feel a lot better and can go back to their usual activities.
By concentrating on recovery, sticking to the recommended therapies, and keeping up with regular doctor visits, patients can confidently manage their recovery. This helps them aim for the best results from their cervical spine surgery.
Authors of this Blog: The Ridgewood Spine Team
Dr. Gaetan Moise, MD, FAANS
Dr. William S. Cobb, MD, PHD, FAANS
Dr. Michael G. Kaiser, MD, FACS, FAANS
Dr. Alfred T. Ogden, MD, FAANS
Dr. Jonathan Yun, MD, FAANS
About Ridgewood
Our team of board certified physicians, located in Ridgewood, New Jersey, are dedicated to bringing you the latest developments and treatment options for spinal surgery. We strive to produce the most clarified & clear content to help you make informed decisions on your medical journey. The road to feeling like your true self should not feel lonely- Let us help you. Please call us to schedule a consultation and speak to one of our team members.
