An Overview of Cervical Spine Surgeries | Spine Institute of Nevada

Cervical Spine Surgeon - Spine Institute of Nevada

The cervical spine is the neck area; it consists of the first seven vertebrae of the spine. While the cervical area provides greater flexibility than the rest of the spine, it’s also particularly prone to injuries because it lacks a great deal of muscle support and because it must bear the weight of the head. The cervical spine can easily become injured with sudden, forceful movements of the head, such as those that are sustained in car accidents. It’s also susceptible to damage from long hours of using improper posture. If you suffer from neck pain, talk to a spine surgeon to learn about your treatment options.

Cervical Discectomy

Neck pain is often the result of a herniated disc in the cervical region of the spine. Disc herniation occurs when soft, spongy material on the inside of the disc protrudes through to the exterior. This material can compress nearby nerves, which results in neck pain. During a discectomy, the surgeon will remove the damaged disc and either leave the space or apply a bone graft. Patients can enjoy a full recovery with the help of physical therapy.

Cervical Disc Replacement

A cervical disc replacement is similar to a discectomy. However, the damaged disc is replaced with an artificial disc. This can help patients enjoy more natural movement of the neck. This type of surgery is best suited to younger patients.

Cervical Laminoplasty

If your neck pain is caused by spinal stenosis or the narrowing of the spinal canal, you could be a good candidate for a cervical laminoplasty. The surgeon will open the back of the vertebra, known as the lamina. In a laminectomy, the lamina is removed. However, with a laminoplasty, the lamina is preserved and fusion of the vertebrae is not required. This provides greater flexibility for the neck area while creating sufficient space for the spinal cord. Dr. Perry of the Spine Institute of Nevada specializes in minimally invasive techniques to treat neck pain. To determine whether you are a good candidate for a cervical discectomy, laminoplasty, or disc replacement, schedule a consultation at our clinic in Las Vegas. You can connect with us by calling 702-239-3787 or visiting our website.