Cervical discectomy and fusion is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate symptoms caused by a herniated or degenerated disc in the cervical spine (neck region). During the procedure, the damaged disc is removed (discectomy), and the adjacent vertebrae are fused together (fusion) to stabilize the spine.

This fusion is typically achieved using bone graft material and may involve the placement of hardware such as screws, plates, or cages to facilitate the fusion process and maintain spinal alignment.

Cervical discectomy and fusion aims to relieve nerve compression, reduce pain, and restore spinal stability and function in patients with cervical disc herniation or degenerative disc disease.

Common reasons for undergoing cervical discectomy and fusion include cervical disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, cervical spinal stenosis, cervical spondylosis, and cervical trauma.

These conditions often lead to symptoms such as neck pain, arm pain, numbness, weakness, and limited mobility. When conservative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms or when there is evidence of spinal instability or nerve compression, surgery may be recommended.

Cervical discectomy and fusion surgery aims to relieve nerve compression, stabilize the spine, and alleviate symptoms by removing the damaged disc and fusing adjacent vertebrae. It is typically considered when symptoms significantly impact daily functioning or mobility of life.

Our Spine Surgeon Dr. Arjun R H H will assess your condition thoroughly before surgery to determine the most suitable course of action.

Minimally invasive spine surgery is typically performed using specialized instruments and techniques that allow the surgeon to access the spine through small incisions.

These procedures often utilize fluoroscopy or other imaging techniques to guide the surgeon’s instruments to the precise location. By minimizing damage to surrounding tissues, muscles, and nerves, this approach aims to reduce pain, scarring, and recovery time for the patient.

The recovery time following cervical discectomy and fusion surgery varies but typically involves a few days in the hospital for monitoring and pain management.

Patients may resume light activities within a few weeks but should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Physical therapy/exercises are initiated shortly after surgery to promote mobility and recovery. Over several weeks to months, patients gradually regain strength and mobility, with pain diminishing as healing progresses.

Full recovery may take several weeks, during which patients gradually resume normal activities. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting may be restricted for a longer period to ensure proper healing and minimize complications.

The risks of cervical discectomy and fusion surgery include infection, bleeding, nerve damage leading to weakness or numbness and spinal cord injury.

Additional risks include fusion failure, adjacent segment degeneration, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and rare complications like  spinal fluid leaks. 

Discussing these risks with our surgeon and carefully following the instructions after surgery can lower the chances of complications and make your recovery process less difficult

The benefits of cervical discectomy and fusion surgery include relief from symptoms such as neck and arm pain, numbness, and weakness caused by cervical disc herniation or degeneration.

Surgery restores spinal stability, preventing further shifting or movement of the affected vertebrae and reducing the risk of future complications. Improved function, mobility, and strength are often observed post-surgery due to the alleviation of nerve compression and restoration of spinal alignment.

Patients may experience a reduced need for pain medications or other conservative treatments, leading to a better quality of life. Additionally, surgery can prevent further damage, such as spinal cord injury, and enhance overall well-being.

Dr. Arjun R. H. H typically evaluates the necessity for Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​ using a combination of methods, including physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI, and a review of the patient’s medical history.

During the physical examination, Dr. Arjun R H H assesses strength, sensation, reflexes, and symptoms like pain and mobility limitations in the affected area.

Imaging tests, particularly MRI, help pinpoint the location and severity of spinal issues like disc degeneration or instability, and whether they are causing nerve compression. Based on these evaluations, Dr. Arjun H H determines if Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​ is the suitable treatment option for the patient’s condition.

The typical duration of a Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​ surgery ranges from 3 to 4 hours, although it can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the herniation, the number of discs involved.

Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​ is known for its relatively short surgical time compared to traditional open spinal surgeries, due to its minimally invasive nature. However, the exact duration can be influenced by individual patient factors and any unforeseen complications that may arise during the procedure.

Following a Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​, the duration of hospital stay is typically short, often ranging from a few hours to one or two days.

In many cases, patient may go home on the same day of the surgery, once they have recovered from the anesthesia and are considered stable by the medical team.

However, some patients may require an overnight stay for observation or if there are any concerns about their recovery. Overall, the duration of hospital stay following Cervical Discectomy and Fusion​ surgery depends on factors such as the patient’s overall health, the extent of the surgery, and the surgeon’s recommendations.

After cervical discectomy and fusion surgery, maintaining a healthy spine involves a combination of medications, exercises, and lifestyle modifications.

For a safe and effective recovery, Dr Arjun R H H will prescribes medications to manage pain and inflammation during the recovery period.

Additionally, Doctor will recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility. Depending on the patient’s overall condition and specific surgical outcome, the doctor may provide personalized recommendations . For more information and guidance, it’s advisable to consult Spine Surgeon Dr. Arjun R H H.