Cervical microdisectomy

What is cervical microdiscectomy surgery?

Cervical microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat a herniated disc in the cervical spine and aims to remove a part of the intervertebral disc that is pressing on the nerve root in the cervical spine.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, during which a small incision is made in the neck and a microscope is used to visualise the affected area. The part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve root is then removed.

When is cervical microdiscectomy surgery indicated?

Cervical microdiscectomy is indicated in the following cases, mainly:

• Cervical disc herniation.
• Cervical nerve root compression.
• Cervical and/or arm pain.

How is a cervical microdiscectomy performed?

Cervical microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive and safe surgery performed under general anaesthesia. The patient is placed in the supine position and a small incision of 1-2 cm is made in the neck to access the cervical spine. A microscope is used to visualise the affected area, although the surgeon can also work with magnifying surgical glasses.

The affected segment is then accessed and the part of the disc that is pressing on the nerve root is removed. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.

What are the risks of cervical microdiskectomy?

Cervical microdiscectomy is a safe and effective surgery, but like any surgical procedure, there are associated risks and complications.

The main risks are the usual risks of spinal surgery:

• Bleeding: Bleeding is a common risk in any surgery, but can be minimised by good surgical technique and the use of medications that reduce blood clotting.
• Infection: Infection is a risk in any surgery, but can be minimised by good surgical technique, use of prophylactic antibiotics and good hygiene before and after surgery.
• Nerve injury: Nerve injury is a risk in any spine surgery, but can be minimised by good surgical technique and, depending on the complexity of the case, the use of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring.
• Residual pain: Residual pain is a common risk after surgery, but can be minimised by good surgical technique and the use of pain medication.
• Dura mater injury and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak: Dura mater injury and CSF leak are risks in any spine surgery, but can be minimised by good surgical technique and the use of dura sealants.

What is the postoperative period like?

After surgery, the patient must stay in hospital for a few hours for pain management and recovery. The patient may need to wear a cervical collar for several weeks after surgery to help stabilise the spine and allow the affected area to heal. The patient should also avoid heavy lifting and strenuous or strenuous activity for the first 3-4 weeks after surgery.

The patient can return to normal life after a few weeks or months, depending on the progress of their recovery. It is important that the patient follows the recommendations of their doctor and physiotherapist to ensure a successful recovery.