Name of the Procedure:

Osteotomy of spine, including discectomy, anterior approach, single vertebral segment; cervical

Summary

This surgical procedure involves the removal of a portion of a spinal disc (discectomy) and a cut through a vertebra (osteotomy) in the cervical (neck) spine. It is performed through an anterior (front) approach to address specific spine-related issues.

Purpose

The procedure addresses conditions such as spinal deformities, disc herniations, or spinal stenosis in the cervical spine. The goals are to relieve pain, correct spinal alignment, and improve spinal function.

Indications

• Chronic neck pain not responding to conservative treatments
• Herniated or degenerated spinal disc
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Cervical spinal deformities
• Neurological symptoms like numbness or weakness in the arms

Preparation

• Fasting for 8 hours before the procedure
• Discontinuation of certain medications as advised by the surgeon
• Preoperative imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans
• Blood tests and overall health assessment

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made on the front of the neck.
3. Muscles and tissues are carefully moved aside to access the cervical spine.
4. The affected disc is partially or entirely removed (discectomy).
5. A portion of the vertebra is cut (osteotomy) to correct alignment or decompress nerves.
6. The surgical site is stabilized with instruments or bone grafts if necessary.
7. The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or neurosurgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Surgical technologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Blood clots
• Respiratory issues
• Failure to relieve symptoms

Benefits

• Pain relief
• Improved spinal stability and alignment
• Enhanced neurological function
• Increased neck mobility

Recovery

• Hospital stay of 1-3 days
• Pain management with medications
• Wearing a cervical collar or brace for several weeks
• Physical therapy starting a few weeks post-surgery
• Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring recovery

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and medications for pain management
• Epidural steroid injections
• Less invasive procedures like minimally invasive discectomy
• Different surgical approaches like posterior cervical fusion

Patient Experience

Patients may experience pain and discomfort after the procedure, which is managed with pain relief medications. Physical therapy is often necessary to regain strength and mobility. A cervical collar may be required for support during the initial recovery phase.