Cervical Disc Disease

Cervical Fusion & Spine Fusion Surgery

The spine fusion is a strong and flexible column made up of bones and soft discs that protect the spinal cord and nerves. The spine allows the human body to stand straight, hold the head, bend and twist the body.

The spinal column is mainly segmented into:

• Cervical Spine (Neck)
• Thoracic Spine (Region opposite to the chest)
• Lumbar Spine (Lower back)
• Sacral Spine (Connected to the pelvis region)

Cervical disc disease is the degeneration of the inter-vertebral discs that provide a cushioning effect to the bony structure. These discs act like a shock absorber for the spinal column. When the discs in the neck region are herniated (displaced) or ruptured the soft gelatinous substances within the discs ooze out compressing the nerves. Compressions of the nerves cause numbness, severe pain and inability to function normally.

Cervical disc diseases mainly affect the neck, arm or hand. Cervical disc disease also cause a distinct reduction in body height.

Symptoms

The common symptoms associated with cervical disc disease are:

• Severe pain around the neck extending to the arm and hand
• Loss of sensation around the neck, arm or hand
• Weakness in moving neck, hand or arms

Causes

Aging, injuries and accidents that cause degeneration of the cervical disc are the most common reasons that lead to cervical disc diseases.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Cervical disc disease can be diagnosed by:

• Nerve Function Tests
• Neck or Spinal X ray
• CT Scan
• MRI Scan
• Myelogram

The treatments for cervical disc disease vary depending on:

• The extent of the disc injury
• Age and overall health
• Medical history
• Preference of treatment

The known non surgical and surgical methods to treat cervical disc disease are:

Non Surgical Methods:

• Rest and rehabilitation
• Neck Braces
• Exercises
• Physiotherapy
• Medication, e.g. NSAID'S
• Ketoprofen 20% cream

Surgical Methods:

Spine Fusion Surgery

• Anterior Cervical Discectomy and fusion (Surgery from the front of the neck)
• Posterior Foraminotomy and Discectomy (Surgery from the back of the neck)