We use cookies so our web site can function correctly. By clicking "OK" or by clicking into any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed.

Privacy Statement

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes.

Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website, by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.

Cookie group mandatory

(Req)
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms.
You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies are required

Functional

These cookies allow us to adtertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Marketing

These cookies allow us to advertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Performance Cookies

These cookies allow us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site.  All information collect is annonomas unless you provide personal information to us.
If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Type to search, press ESC to leave

Posterior cervical decompression without  fusion

Surgery for neck pain

Email us

HCA Booking Line:

0207 079 4344

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.

Request an appointment

Our booking teams can help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

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