Our Summary

The research paper discusses a common spine surgery technique called anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. This procedure is performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and the openings where the nerves pass from the spinal cord to the rest of the body. When performed correctly, this surgery has some of the best outcomes in the field of spine surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?
  2. What does an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure aim to achieve?
  3. What are the expected results of an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion when performed correctly?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about discectomy is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including restrictions on activities such as lifting heavy objects or bending at the waist. It is important to give the spine time to heal properly to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery. Additionally, attending physical therapy as recommended can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and aid in recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for discectomy are those who have:

  1. Severe or persistent neck pain, arm pain, or weakness caused by a herniated disc in the cervical spine.
  2. Symptoms that have not improved with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections.
  3. Radiologic evidence of nerve compression or spinal cord compression on imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
  4. Progressive neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty with fine motor skills.
  5. Good overall health and no contraindications to surgery.
  6. Failed to respond to conservative treatments for at least 6-12 weeks.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a spine specialist to determine if they are a good candidate for discectomy surgery.

Timeline

Before discectomy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms of neck or arm pain, weakness, and/or numbness.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as x-rays, MRI, or CT scan to confirm the presence of a herniated disc.
  3. Patient may undergo conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections to manage symptoms.

After discectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and preparation for surgery.
  2. Discectomy surgery is performed to remove the herniated disc and relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
  3. Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and pain management.
  4. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation and physical therapy to improve strength and range of motion.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and experiences relief from symptoms such as pain, weakness, and numbness.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after discectomy can vary, but the goal is to provide relief from symptoms and improve overall function and quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of discectomy for my specific condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications of the procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery time after a discectomy?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for a discectomy?
  6. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after the surgery to prevent further disc herniation?
  7. How long will I need to be off work or limit my activities following the surgery?
  8. What can I expect in terms of pain management during and after the procedure?
  9. How long do the effects of a discectomy typically last?
  10. Are there any long-term implications or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing a discectomy?

Reference

Authors: Schroeder GD, Kurd MF, Millhouse PW, Vaccaro AR, Hilibrand AS. Journal: Clin Spine Surg. 2016 Jun;29(5):186-90. doi: 10.1097/BSD.0000000000000383. PMID: 27187618