Name of the Procedure:

Discectomy, anterior, with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), including osteophytectomy; cervical, single interspace

Summary

An anterior cervical discectomy and decompression involves removing a damaged cervical disc and any bony growths (osteophytes) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Purpose

The procedure aims to alleviate pain, numbness, and weakness caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine (neck region). Its primary goal is to improve neurological function and relieve symptoms.

Indications

• Persistent neck pain radiating to the arms.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands.
• Worsening symptoms despite conservative treatment like physical therapy and medications.
• MRI or CT scans showing disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or osteophytes compressing the spinal cord or nerves.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be required, especially blood thinners.
• Preoperative assessments might include blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the front of the neck.
3. Disc Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the damaged disc and any osteophytes.
4. Decompression: The spinal cord and nerve roots are decompressed to alleviate pressure.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Specialized surgical instruments and a microscope may be used to enhance precision.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the specifics of the case.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital surgical suite or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

The surgical team may include:

• Spine surgeon or neurosurgeon.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses and technicians.
• Postoperative care staff.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Rare complications may involve spinal cord injury, persistent pain, or nerve damage. Management may involve antibiotics, additional surgeries, or pain management interventions.

Benefits

Patients can expect a significant reduction in pain and neurological symptoms. Improvement is often noticeable within a few weeks post-surgery.

Recovery

• Initial hospital stay of 1-2 days might be required.
• Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor recovery.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to aid rehabilitation.

Alternatives

Non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, medications, and epidural steroid injections. Each has varying efficacy and may not provide permanent relief. Surgery is considered when these options fail to alleviate symptoms.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel discomfort and soreness at the incision site, managed with prescribed pain medications. Most individuals can return to normal activities within a few weeks, experiencing improved mobility and reduced pain.