Cervical Spine Surgery Treatment in India

Types of Cervical Spine Surgery Treatment

There are several types of cervical spine surgery, depending on the specific condition of the patient. Here are some common procedures:

• Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
• Cervical Disc Replacement
• Posterior Cervical Decompression
• Foraminotomy
• Laminectomy

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

This procedure involves the release of pressure on the spinal cord and the associated nerves which is caused by the disc herniation or other cervical vertebrae deformities. In this technique, the damaged part of the disc or bone is removed and then fusion of the vertebrae is performed by using some implants or bone grafts.

Cervical Disc Replacement

In this, the herniated or damaged part of the disc between two vertebrae is removed and replaced by an artificial disc which removes the symptoms and also allows greater mobility at the cervical region.

Posterior Cervical Decompression

This procedure is performed by using the approach of the back side to release or decompress the spinal cord and nerves. The removal of abnormal bone allows the greater space for nerves that were previously impinged due to presence of abnormal bone or spinal stenosis.

Foraminotomy

The procedure involves the widening of the spaces or foramina by which the nerve roots are passing. It relieves the pressure on the nerve and ultimately eliminates the symptoms.

Laminectomy

Lamina is the arch of bone. Laminectomy involves the removal of the arch of bone which is the main cause of abnormal symptoms. By performing this procedure, the pain and numbness alleviates.

Procedure of Cervical Spine Surgery

Here is a general outline of the procedure for cervical spine surgery:

Incision under anesthesia: after the pre-operative preparation, the surgeon gives the anesthesia to the patient either as a whole or to a specific part under procedure. An incision is made either from the front or back to access the vertebrae of the cervical spine.

Accessing the spine: the surgeon carefully moves some muscles and removes the bone or disc of cervical spine to access the target.

Decompression: This involves removing portions of bone, herniated disc material, or thickened tissues that are compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots. 

Fusion (optional): In some cases, spinal fusion may be necessary to provide stability and prevent abnormal movement between the vertebrae. The surgeon may use bone grafts, metal implants, or rods to fuse the affected vertebrae which allows limited movement and provide stability.

Closure: the surgeon closes the incision and applies medications to prevent any infection.

Post-operative care: the medications to prevent pain, blood thinners are given to the patient. Physical therapy is an essential part of the care for maximum recovery.

Cost of Cervical Spine Surgery Treatment

Cost of Cervical Spine Surgery in India

The cost of cervical spine surgery in India is approximately 6300 USD to 7700 USD. This may vary according to the type of procedure performed and the skills of the surgeon. It also depends on the facilities of the hospital at which it is performed. Different procedures have different cost which is described below:
Cost of different procedures of cervical spine surgery in India:

Symptoms & Risk Factors of Cervical Spine Surgery Treatment

Here are some of the conditions that may require cervical spine surgery:

• Cervical radiculopathy
• Cervical myelopathy
• Cervical disc herniation
• Cervical spinal stenosis
• Cervical instability
• Cervical fractures or dislocations
• Cervical tumors or infections requiring surgical intervention
• Cervical deformities
• Failed non-surgical treatments for cervical spine conditions
• Severe neck pain or neurological symptoms affecting daily function and quality of life.

Risk Factors of Cervical Spine Surgery

Here are some common risk factors associated with cervical spine surgery:

Infection

There is a risk of developing an infection at any open surgery. So the proper medications to prevent infection are essential.

Bleeding

There is a risk of excessive bleeding or hematoma formation. In rare cases, blood loss is so extensive that there may require blood transfusions.

Nerve Injury

The cervical spine contains important nerves and there is a risk of nerve injury that can lead to weakness, numbness, pain, or even paralysis. 

Pain and Discomfort

After cervical spine surgery, it is common to experience pain and discomfort. This can be managed with pain killers.

Anesthesia Risks

The use of anesthesia carries certain risks, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, or adverse effects on the heart. 

Blood Clots

Surgery increases the risk of developing blood clots in the legs or lungs. Proper care is required otherwise it can also lead to death.

Non-Union or Pseudo Arthrosis

This means the bones do not heal and fuse together properly, resulting in continued instability and symptoms. And this may require another surgery.

Segment Degeneration

Following cervical spine surgery, stress on surrounding spinal segments can increase, which can lead to overuse injury or tear, known as segment degeneration. This can cause new symptoms and may need new surgery to manage the problem.