Table of Contents
What neck injuries require surgery?
When Surgery Is Needed for Neck Pain
- To relieve pain caused by a nerve root that’s being pinched by bone spurs or material from a ruptured or herniated disk, a condition called cervical radiculopathy.
- To remove pressure on the spinal cord caused by bone spurs, a condition known as spinal stenosis.
Why would you need your neck fused?
An anterior cervical fusion is done for two reasons: To remove pressure from the nerve roots caused by bone spurs or herniated disc material. To stop the motion between two vertebrae – a spinal segment.
Why would you need ACDF surgery?
An ACDF is usually performed for one or more of the following reasons: To treat pressure on the spinal cord (caused by a prolapsed or ruptured disc, or other causes of spinal canal narrowing) To treat pressure on one or more spinal nerve roots (caused by a disc prolapse or rupture, or foraminal stenosis or narrowing)
How serious is neck surgery?
Complications during routine neck surgery are rare, and a study shows the most serious—death—is virtually nonexistent. Every surgical procedure carries a risk of complications. But even if the risk is low, serious complications can occur.
How long is recovery after neck surgery?
Usually, you will have to remain in the hospital for around two days following this surgery. Further recovery will happen over the next four to six weeks, after which you can return to light activities. Full recovery takes around two to three months.
What is the success rate of neck surgery?
This surgery has a high success rate. Between 93 to 100 percent of people who’ve had ACDF surgery for arm pain reported relief from pain, and 73 to 83 percent of people who had ACDF surgery for neck pain reported positive results.
Does Acdf qualify for disability?
If you have suffered from a spinal disorder that has resulted in you undergoing spinal fusion, but you are still unable to work, you may be eligible to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
Is cervical fusion a disability?
Most individuals who undergo a spinal fusion surgery end up qualifying for SSDI benefits through a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment. An RFC will document your ability to perform certain tasks, such as lifting and walking.
What are the side effects of neck surgery?
Some risks related to neck surgery can include:
- bleeding or hematoma at the surgical site.
- infection of the surgical site.
- injury to the nerves or spinal cord.
- leakage of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF)
- C5 palsy, which causes paralysis in the arms.
- degeneration of areas adjacent to the surgical site.
How long does neck surgery take to heal?
After both procedures patients are usually discharged from the hospital within 1-2 days. It will take between 4 and 6 weeks before light work can be accomplished, while full recovery usually takes between 2 and 3 months. If necessary your doctor may suggest physical therapy sessions to aid recovery.