Neck is part of a long flexible column, known as the spinal column or backbone, which extends through most of the body. The cervical spine (neck region) consists of seven bones (C1-C7 vertebrae), which are separated from one another by intervertebral discs. These discs allow the spine to move freely and act as shock absorbers during activity.

Cervical spine surgery is mostly performed on an elective basis to treat either:

• Nerve/spinal cord impingement (decompression surgery)
• Spinal instability (fusion surgery).

The two procedures are often combined, as a decompression may de-stabilize the spine and create the need for a fusion to add stability. 

Procedure

Procedure is performed under General Anaesthesia & can take 1-5 hours.

Cervical Fusion:

• Damaged disc is removed and a bone graft (which is taken either from the patient's hip or from a cadaver) is placed in the space between the vertebrae.
• Bone graft will eventually fuse to the vertebrae above and below it.
• A metal plate may be screwed into the vertebrae above and below the graft to hold the bone in place while it heals and fuses with the vertebrae.

Recovery

Majority of the patients who have undergone cervical spine surgery have experienced good to excellent results following the operation. Most people will experience significant relief of pain both in the neck and the radicular pain into the shoulder and arm. 

Complete recovery can take several months.