Cervical Herniated Disc: Surgical Treatment
Cervical Herniated Disc Treatment – Surgical
Spine surgery is considered if non-surgical treatment does not relieve symptoms
or if spinal cord compression is suspected. If surgery is recommended, always
ask the purpose of the operation and what results you can expect. Never be afraid
to obtain a second opinion.
To relieve nerve pressure and neck pain, surgery usually involves a partial disc removal or discectomy. This surgery is usually done from the front of the neck (called an anterior discectomy). In addition, the surgeon may need to access the problem disc by removing a portion of the bone covering the nerve. This procedure is called a laminotomy and is usually done from the back of the neck (posterior laminotomy).
Fortunately, these procedures can often be done utilizing minimally invasive spine surgery techniques. Minimally invasive spine surgery does not require large incisions, but instead uses smaller cuts and tiny specialized instruments and devices such as a microscope and endoscope during the operation.
Prevention
Aging is inevitable, but lifestyle changes can help prevent cervical disc
disease. Risk factors include poor posture and body mechanics, weak neck muscles,
smoking and obesity. Start now to adopt habits that will help preserve your
spine for the future.