Cervical Fusion

Cervical Spinal Fusion Surgery

Cervical spinal fusion (arthrodesis) is a procedure that involves joining segments of bone in the neck (cervical spine). It is typically used to treat serious conditions of the spine and when conservative care fails to provide relief of improve a patient’s mobility. Cervical spinal fusion may be performed through incisions in the back (posterior) or front (anterior) parts of the neck using different approaches:

• Bone grafts may be used, either from another part of the body or from a bone bank, to form a bridge between adjacent vertebrae and stimulate new growth. In some cases, artificial materials may be used to fuse vertebrae.
• Metal plates and screws may be used to stabilize and hold vertebrae in place while new bone growth forms in between them.
• A portion vertebra or a spinal disc may be removed during the surgery. This can help stabilize the cervical segment.

Cervical fusion may be required following traumatic injuries that pose risks of fractures and instability and spinal cord damage. It is also a procedure used to treat misalignment and disorders such as herniated discs, arthritis, spinal deformities, and spinal stenosis, among others. Recovery will vary from patient to patient, and there may be limitations in the initial weeks. Over time, and with physical therapy and rehabilitation, patients can make a full recovery and return to physical activity.

Determining whether you are a candidate for cervical fusion is a matter that requires personal evaluation from an orthopedic spine surgeon at the Spine Center at Hoag Orthopedic Institute. Our Board-Certified orthopedic surgeons can assess your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform diagnostic tests (myelogram, CT scans, MRIs, etc.), in order to assess the benefits of spinal fusion.

Find a Cervical Surgeon with the Spine Center at Hoag Orthopedic Institute

The Spine Center at Hoag Orthopedic Institute is an award-winning orthopedic-only hospital committed to providing the expertise and care patients need to live more active and healthier lives. Our orthopedic surgeons who specialize in spine treatments are fellowship trained in spine conditions, which means they have been trained to perform the most innovative spine treatments. Not only is Hoag Orthopedic Institute an orthopedic-specific hospital, but we have a dedicated spine nurse navigator to help patients undergoing spine surgery and their families prepare their homes by arranging pre and post-surgery education to ensure a faster recovery.

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