A posterior cervical fusion is a surgical procedure that involves joining two or more vertebrae in the cervical spine together using bone grafts, screws, and rods. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals who are experiencing instability or compression in the cervical spine due to conditions such as cervical degenerative disc disease, cervical spondylotic myelopathy, or cervical spinal stenosis.
Posterior cervical fusion is often recommended for individuals who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments and are seeking a long-term solution to their neck pain. At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we are here to help you understand the benefits of a posterior cervical fusion.
What Are the Benefits of Posterior Cervical Fusion?
There are multiple benefits to undergoing posterior cervical fusion, such as:
Relief of Chronic Neck Pain
One of the main benefits of a posterior cervical fusion is the relief of chronic neck pain. By stabilizing the affected area of the cervical spine, this procedure can help alleviate the symptoms associated with the underlying condition, allowing you to experience improved mobility and a better quality of life. The procedure can help prevent further damage to the cervical spine and reduce the risk of developing complications.
Reduce the Risk of Further Injuries or Degeneration
A posterior cervical fusion can provide long-term stability and support for your cervical spine, reducing the risk of future injuries and degeneration. This can help you maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, free from the limitations and discomfort associated with your cervical spine condition.
Restore Natural Function
A posterior cervical fusion can also help improve the overall function of your cervical spine. By reducing instability and compression in the affected area, this procedure can help restore normal movement and function in your neck, allowing you to perform daily activities with greater ease and comfort. This can be especially great for individuals who have been struggling with limitations in their mobility and have been unable to find relief from non-surgical interventions.
Prevent Kyphosis
Kyphosis is the reversal of the normal curve of your spine. This can leave your spine in a more vulnerable situation where it is more likely to get injured and cause other problems. The fusion aspect of the posterior cervical fusion allows for a wider area of decompression and helps to prevent kyphosis from forming. This can be important in preserving overall spinal health.
Provide Some Stabilization After Injury
Many of the patients who undergo a posterior cervical fusion do so to treat a chronic condition or to stop the progression of a deformity that they were born with. However, this isn’t always the case. For patients who have fractured or dislocated their spine during an injury, a posterior cervical fusion might be recommended as a way to stabilize the spine and allow it to heal without getting worse. This could happen in an emergency setting, if needed, or as an option when none of the other non-surgical approaches have proven to be effective.
Schedule an Appointment with an Orthopedic Surgeon
If you are considering a posterior cervical fusion, it is important to find a highly qualified surgeon to do the procedure. They can explain the benefits of the procedure, what to expect during the procedure, and what to know about the recovery process. Your surgeon will carefully look at your medical records and overall health to guide you with recommendations.
At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons and spine specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and innovative treatments to help you find relief from your neck pain. If you have been recommended for a posterior cervical fusion, we are here to guide you through the process and help you understand the potential benefits of this procedure for your specific condition. Contact us today at (866) 553-0612 or use our contact form.