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Posterior cervical decompression without  fusion

Surgery for neck pain

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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.
Consultant in theatres

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 - South Building

    The Wellington Hospital

    Wellington Place

    London NW8 9LE

    Appointments 020 7483 5148
    General enquiries 020 7586 5959
    Post COVID Recovery service 020 7483 5348

  • London Bridge Hospital

    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
    General enquiries 020 7730 7733

  • The Princess Grace Hospital

    42-52 Nottingham Place

    London W1U 5NY

    Appointments 020 7908 8001
    General enquiries 020 7486 1234

  • The Portland Hospital

    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 HSC exterior

    The Harley Street Clinic

    35 Weymouth Street

    London  W1G 8BJ

    Appointments 020 7935 7700
    General enquiries 020 7034 8181
    Post COVID Recovery service 020 7034 6602

  • HCA UK at The Wilmslow Hospital

    52-54 Alderley Road

    Wilmslow

    SK9 1NY

    Appointments 020 7483 5148
    General enquiries 01615 160 961

  • London Bridge Hospital Facility

    HCA UK at The Shard

    The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street

    London

    SE1 9BS

    Call 020 3131 6888
    Opening hours 7:30 - 20:00 Monday - Friday

  • London-bridge-31-old-broad-street

    31 Old Broad Street

    31 Old Broad Street

    London

    EC2N 1HT

    Call 020 7496 3522

Request an appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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