Posterior cervical decompression without fusion
Surgery for neck pain
About
Need to know
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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.
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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.
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