Overview
Posterior cervical spinal fusion is a procedure which involves the fusion of two or more vertebrae of the cervical spine. This procedure is used to treat cervical spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, myelopathy and malalignment. The surgery is performed through a midline incision made down the back of the neck. A dissection is made through the neck muscles to the vertebrae. From there, screws are placed into each vertebra and rods are fit to connect the screws together thereby immobilizing the vertebrae and allowing for bony fusion to occur gradually over time.
Post operative expectations
Many patients report rapid relief of symptoms after surgery. Patients will wear a hard collar for a minimum of 4 weeks after the procedure. Activity is restricted in order to protect the hardware and allow for healing of the wound. Most patients can return to work after 6-8 weeks and are ready to return to full, unrestricted activities by 6 months.
