Posterior cervical fusion

About

So far we have discussed cervical procedures which are done through the front of the neck. Release of ‘pinched’ nerves (Spinal stenosis) can also be done from the back of the neck. Your surgeon may choose to do it this way and not fuse the spine either. This is called a cervical decompression. Part of the bone is removed from the back of the spinal column in your neck to relieve pressure caused by the spinal stenosis. Cervical spinal stenosis is similar to the stenosis in the lower back and can also cause weakness/numbness or pain in your arms and legs.

Need to know

What happens icon plus

The procedure is usually conducted under general anaesthetic, meaning you'll be asleep for the duration. It usually takes between one and two hours. Because surgery is performed with you lying on your front, it is necessary to apply temporary pins to the skull, attached to a special clamp, which allows your head to be securely suspended over the operating table. These pins are removed immediately after the procedure (before you wake up).

Your consultant will make a cut in the middle of the back of your neck. The consultant will split the muscles to gain access to your spine. Enough bone and ligament tissue are removed to open up the narrowed part of the canal, giving your spinal cord and blood vessels more space. They will then carefully sew up the incision.
How to prepare icon plus

Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for your surgery.
Afterwards icon plus

You will spend around one to three nights in hospital. After surgery you may need to lie flat in bed for a few hours while the anesthetic wears off. The aim will be to get you up and walking as soon as possible after the surgery.The following day you will be mobilised in the morning with the assistance of a physiotherapist or nurse. Each day you will be encouraged to undertake more activities by yourself.

Our spinal consultants

We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic and neurosurgical experts, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our facilities

From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

The Wellington Hospital

Wellington Place

London NW8 9LE

Appointments 020 7483 5148
Enquiries 020 7586 5959
London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street

London

SE1 2PR

Appointments & Enquiries 020 7234 2009
Imaging Appointments 020 7234 2773
The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road

London

SW1W 8RH

Appointments 020 7730 8298
The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place

London W1U 5NY

Appointments 020 7908 8001
Enquiries 020 7486 1234
The Portland Hospital

205 - 209 Great Portland Street

London

W1W 5AH

Children's enquiries 020 7390 8020
Maternity enquiries 020 7390 6068
Gynaecology enquiries 020 7390 6200
The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street

London

W1G 8BJ

Appointments 020 7034 8181
Enquiries 020 7935 7700
HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital

52-54 Alderley Road

Wilmslow

SK9 1NY

Call 01625 545 036
HCA UK at The Shard

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street

London

SE1 9BS

Call 020 3131 6888
31 Old Broad Street

31 Old Broad Street

London

EC2N 1HT

Call 020 7496 3522
Opening times For imaging appointments only. 8am – 4pm (evening appointments available upon request.)