Cervical Discectomy
Overview
Cervical discectomy is a surgical procedure aiming to alleviate neck or arm pain caused by certain conditions affecting the cervical spine (neck area). These conditions may cause the spinal discs to herniate or degenerate, placing undue pressure on the spinal nerves or spinal cord, resulting in discomfort and/or debilitation. This procedure involves removing a damaged disc to relieve this pressure.
Types
There are primarily two types of cervical discectomy surgeries:
1. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): In this procedure, the damaged disc is accessed from the front (anterior) side of the neck, removed and the space is typically filled with a bone graft, prompting the two vertebrae to fuse together over time.
2. Posterior Cervical Discectomy: This process involves accessing the damaged disc from the back (posterior) side of the neck. This method is used when the disc herniation is found on the side or backs of the spinal canal.
Causes
Factors contributing to conditions prompting cervical discectomy include:
– Aging
– Significant stress or injuries to the neck
– Poor body mechanics
– Repetitive physical activities causing strain on the neck
– Genetic predisposition towards spinal degeneration
Symptoms
Signs that might indicate the need for cervical discectomy include:
– Persistent neck pain
– Arm pain, numbness or weakness
– Difficulty with balance or coordination
– Progressive deterioration of motor skills or functions
Diagnosis
Various diagnostic tests may be utilized to identify the cause of symptoms:
– Physical and neurological examinations
– Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, and X-rays
– Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS)
Treatment Options
Treatment options for cervical disc disorders can be non-surgical or surgical:
- Non-surgical: Physical therapy, pain medications, rest, cervical collars, or steroid injections.
– Surgical: In severe cases or when non-surgical treatments fail, cervical discectomy might be recommended.
Living With Cervical Discectomy
Post-surgery life can be managed with some practical steps:
– Regular physiotherapy and exercises to strengthen neck muscles
– Pain medication management as prescribed
– Maintaining good posture
– Making necessary lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity
When to Seek Help
Immediate medical attention should be sought when experiencing:
- Severe pain not responding to conservative treatments
- Motor deficits such as difficulty in coordination
– Noticeable decline in your quality of life due to symptoms
– Signs of infection post-surgery, such as fever or wound redness/ discharge
This guide serves as a basic information tool regarding cervical discectomy. Decisions related to diagnosis or treatment should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.
