Cervical spine surgeries
The cervical spine, comprising the uppermost portion of the vertebral column, plays a fundamental role in supporting the head, facilitating motion, and protecting the delicate spinal cord.
Comprising seven vertebrae labelled C1 to C7, the cervical spine is a complex structure with unique mobility and stability demands. Understanding the intricacies of the cervical spine is crucial for comprehending its function, potential issues, and the range of surgical procedures related to the cervical spine, which are often performed to address various conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.
These procedures, conducted by skilled surgeons like Dr Sherief Elsayed, aim to alleviate pain, improve functionality, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals dealing with cervical spine issues.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Arthroplasty
Anterior cervical discectomy and arthroplasty (ACDA) is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate issues associated with the cervical spine, particularly problems related to damaged or herniated discs. In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the cervical spine through the front of the neck and replaces the problematic disc with an artificial disc.
The goal is to relieve pressure on nerves, restore stability, and maintain natural motion in the neck. ACDA is often considered for individuals experiencing neck pain, arm pain, or neurological symptoms caused by cervical disc problems. It aims to enhance overall spinal function and alleviate discomfort associated with cervical spine issues.
you can read more on cervical disc replacement
Anterior Cervical Arthroplasty
Anterior cervical arthroplasty (ACA) is a surgical procedure designed to address cervical spine issues, particularly those related to damaged or degenerated discs. In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the cervical spine through the front of the neck, similar to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). However, instead of fusing the adjacent vertebrae after disc removal, ACA involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial disc implant. This artificial disc is intended to preserve natural neck motion and reduce the risk of adjacent segment degeneration that can occur with fusion procedures.
ACA is often considered for individuals seeking relief from neck pain and neurological symptoms associated with cervical disc problems, offering an alternative to traditional fusion techniques.
Anterior Cervical Corpectomy
Anterior cervical corpectomy is a surgical procedure that addresses certain cervical spine conditions, particularly those involving vertebral body problems. In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the cervical spine through the front of the neck to remove the vertebral body and associated discs, relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Following the removal, the surgeon typically replaces the excised vertebral body with a bone graft or a metal implant, providing stability to the spine. Anterior cervical corpectomy is commonly used to treat conditions such as cervical spondylotic myelopathy, cervical fractures, or tumours affecting the vertebral bodies. The goal of the surgery is to alleviate spinal cord compression and restore stability to the cervical spine, improving overall neck function and relieving associated symptoms.
Posterior Cervical Decompression Surgery
Posterior cervical decompression surgery is a medical procedure designed to bring down pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the cervical (neck) region of the spine. Unlike anterior approaches, this surgery is performed from the back of the neck. During the procedure, the surgeon removes bone or tissue compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots. This can involve removing part of the vertebral bone, thickened ligaments, or other structures causing compression.
Posterior cervical decompression typically treats conditions like spinal stenosis or other abnormalities in the cervical spine. By creating more space for the spinal cord and nerves, the surgery aims to relieve pain, numbness, and other symptoms associated with compression.
After the decompression, the surgeon may perform additional steps, such as fusing adjacent vertebrae or stabilising the spine with instrumentation to enhance long-term results. The specificity of the surgery may vary according to the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s assessment.
Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy
Posterior cervical foraminotomy is a surgical procedure designed to address issues affecting the neural foramen in the cervical spine. The neural foramen is a passageway through which nerve roots exit the spinal cord and travel to other parts of the body. When this space becomes narrowed or compressed due to herniated discs, bone spurs, or degenerative changes, it can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and hands.
Posterior cervical foraminotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to address nerve compression with precision while minimising disruption to surrounding tissues. It is often considered when conservative treatments, such as medication or physical therapy, have been unable to deliver adequate relief for cervical radiculopathy (nerve root compression). The procedure is tailored to the specific needs of the patient based on diagnostic imaging and the surgeon’s evaluation.
you can read more about arm pain treatment
Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion Surgery
Posterior cervical decompression and fusion is a surgical procedure performed to address spinal issues in the cervical (neck) region. This comprehensive approach involves two main components: Decompression and Fusion.
Decompression
In this phase, the surgeon removes or trim structures causing compression, which reduces pressure on the nerve roots. This can include removing part of the vertebral bone, thickened ligaments, or other tissues that are impinging on the nerves.
The goal is to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, relieving symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness.
Fusion
Following decompression, the surgeon may perform a fusion to stabilise the spine. This phase entails joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, metal plates, screws, or rods.
This promotes the natural healing process, allowing the vertebrae to grow together and form a solid, stable structure. Fusion is often recommended when there is instability in the spine or when removing a disc necessitates additional support.
Dr Sherief Elsayed
Specialised Surgical Expertise in Cervical Spine
Dr Sherief Elsayed, a distinguished expert in spine surgery, employs a comprehensive approach to address cervical spine conditions, ensuring patients receive personalised and effective care. As mentioned above, his expertise extends to procedures like posterior cervical foraminotomy and anterior cervical corpectomy, focusing on relieving nerve compression and restoring spinal stability.
With a dedication to optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction, Dr Sherief stands as a trusted authority in cervical spine surgery, providing relief and renewed quality of life to those in need.
