Name of the Procedure:

Open treatment and/or reduction of vertebral fracture(s) and/or dislocation(s), posterior approach, 1 fractured vertebra or dislocated segment; cervical

Summary

This surgical procedure involves the open reduction and fixation of a fractured or dislocated cervical (neck) vertebra. The operation is performed through an incision in the back of the neck and is meant to realign the spinal bones and secure them to promote healing and restore stability.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to address cervical vertebral fractures or dislocations. The primary goals are to:

• Relieve pain and pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Restore proper alignment of the cervical spine.
• Stabilize the spine to promote healing and prevent further injury.

Indications

• Severe neck pain following trauma.
• Cervical vertebral fracture confirmed by imaging.
• Spinal instability or deformity.
• Neurological impairments such as numbness, weakness, or paralysis.
• Failure of non-surgical treatments to provide relief.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours prior to surgery.
• Discontinuation of certain medications as directed.
• Pre-operative imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
• Pre-surgical assessment including physical exam and blood tests.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia.
2. A careful incision is made in the back of the neck (posterior approach).
3. Muscles and tissues are gently retracted to expose the vertebrae.
4. The fractured or dislocated vertebra is realigned and stabilized using screws, rods, or plates.
5. The surgical site is closed with sutures or staples.
6. A sterile bandage is applied to the incision.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the fracture and the patient's condition.

Setting

• Hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or neurosurgeon.
• Surgical nurse.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Surgical technologist.

Risks and Complications

• Infection.
• Bleeding.
• Blood clots.
• Nerve or spinal cord injury.
• Persistent pain or stiffness.
• Hardware failure or movement.
• Need for additional surgery.

Benefits

• Effective pain relief.
• Restoration of spinal stability.
• Improvement in neurological function.
• Prevention of further spinal damage.

Recovery

• Hospital stay for 2 to 5 days.
• Wearing a cervical collar or brace for several weeks.
• Physical therapy to aid in recovery.
• Avoidance of heavy lifting or strenuous activities.
• Follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments such as bracing or pain management.
• Minimally invasive surgical options, if appropriate.
• Risks of non-treatment include worsening pain, instability, and potential for neurological deterioration.

Patient Experience

• Due to anesthesia, the patient will be asleep during the procedure.
• Post-operative pain managed with medications.
• Some discomfort and restrictions during the recovery period.
• Gradual return to normal activities as healing progresses.