Radiculopathy is a condition caused by nerve root compression or irritation in the neck area of the spine. When non-invasive treatments like therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments don’t provide relief, surgery becomes a choice. In this article, we’ll explore options for cervical radiculopathy that aim to reduce pain and enhance patients’ quality of life.
Explore the Various Options for Cervical Radiculopathy
Microdiscectomy
Microdiscectomy, also known as microdecompression, is a surgical procedure that targets herniated or damaged discs in the cervical spine. It involves removing a portion of the affected disc material to release pressure on the pinched nerve root. The goal is to alleviate pain and restore nerve function. Microdiscectomy is often recommended when a specific disc is identified as the cause of radiculopathy.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a procedure for treating cervical radiculopathy. During ACDF, the damaged disc is removed from the front of the neck and the neighbouring vertebrae are fused together using either bone grafts or synthetic materials. This stabilizes the spine and eliminates movement at the affected disc level, relieving pressure on the nerve root. ACDF is a treatment for both radiculopathy and associated symptoms, such as neck pain.
Artificial Disc Replacement
Also known as disc arthroplasty, disc replacement (ADR) is a surgical approach that involves replacing the damaged disc with an artificial implant. This procedure allows for the preservation of motion at the treated level, making it an appealing choice for individuals who wish to maintain neck flexibility. ADR can be an option for patients dealing with cervical radiculopathy, as it provides pain relief while enabling more natural movement of the neck compared to fusion surgery.
Posterior Foraminotomy
Posterior foraminotomy is a surgical technique designed to address nerve root compression in the cervical spine from the back. During this procedure, a small portion of the bone and tissue surrounding the foramen (the bony opening through which nerve roots exit the spine) is removed, creating space for the nerve root. Posterior foraminotomy effectively alleviates pressure on the nerve without requiring fusion, providing an alternative for certain patients.
Laminectomy
Laminectomy refers to an intervention where the lamina, which is a bony arch in the spine, is removed to relieve pressure on both the cord and nerve roots. Although spinal stenosis is the application, it can also be used to ease cervical radiculopathy caused by bone overgrowth that leads to nerve compression. Laminectomy may be performed alone. In conjunction with fusion surgery, depending on the individual’s condition,
Cervical corpectomy
It is a procedure that involves removing one or more bodies along with adjacent discs to address severe compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. After the corpectomy, the spine is reconstructed using bone grafts and hardware. This procedure is typically reserved for cases of radiculopathy where other treatment options may not offer sufficient relief.
Surgical Options for Cervical Radiculopathy Treatment
In conclusion, surgical treatments for cervical radiculopathy aim to alleviate pain, restore nerve function, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the cause of radiculopathy, the patient’s health condition and their preferences regarding neck mobility preservation.
It is crucial for individuals suffering from radiculopathy to seek consultation from a spine expert who can assess their condition and recommend an appropriate surgical approach. While surgery can provide relief it’s important to consider both the risks and benefits involved and explore non-surgical alternatives before deciding on any surgical intervention.
Call Us Now to Schedule an Appointment!