Cervical Fusion

Cervical fusion helps to stabilize your neck after spine surgeries like discectomy. At North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates in Ridgewood, New Jersey, board-certified neurosurgeons Amanda Carpenter, MD, and Duncan Carpenter, MD, specialize in spinal procedures like cervical fusion. Call North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates today to arrange a discussion about cervical fusion and how it could benefit you. Alternatively, use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation.

What is cervical fusion?

Cervical fusion is a spine surgery that joins two or more vertebrae (bones in your neck) to help stabilize your spine. This procedure is often used when there’s damage, instability, or too much movement between the bones in your neck. 

By fusing the bones together, North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates can reduce pain, protect the spinal cord, and improve your quality of life.

Why would someone need cervical fusion?

You might need cervical fusion if you have problems that can cause chronic neck pain, such as:

• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Cervical arthritis
• Vertebral fractures 
• Degenerative disc disease
• Radiculopathy (pinched nerve)
• Excessive vertebral movement

These issues can lead to neck pain, numbness, weakness, and trouble using your arms or hands. If other treatments like medication or physical therapy haven’t helped, surgery might be the next step.

How is cervical fusion performed?

Depending on your condition, North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates may approach cervical fusion surgery from the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the neck. Where possible, surgeons use minimally invasive methods that reduce tissue damage, including robotic-assisted spine surgery.

During cervical fusion, your surgeon removes the damaged disc or bone and places a graft (a piece of bone or a special implant) between the vertebrae. This graft helps the bones grow together over time. Your surgeon may also use metal plates, screws, or rods to hold everything in place while your spine heals. 

What is recovery like after cervical fusion?

Recovery following cervical fusion varies from person to person, but most patients spend one to two days in the hospital. After that, you continue healing at home. 

You may need to wear a neck brace, avoid heavy lifting, and follow a physical therapy program to regain strength and movement. The bones can take several months to fully fuse, but many people start feeling better within a few weeks.

Depending on how many vertebrae your surgeon fuses, you might lose a little flexibility in your neck. Most people adjust quickly and don’t notice a big difference in their daily activities.

Are there any risks with cervical fusion?

As with any surgery, cervical fusion does come with risks. These may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve injury
• Bones not fusing properly

Some people may have limited neck movement after cervical fusion. However, most patients do well.

To help you understand if cervical fusion is right for you, call North Jersey Neurosurgical Associates today or book an appointment online.