This generally clears up within a few weeks following surgery. If the fusion does not become solid, it is possible that with time the plate will eventually crack. This has occurred in plates used during 1993 but has not been a problem with a newer plate design. Indications for plating a one level fusion have not been established. The disadvantages of an anterior cervical fusion include complications common to all surgical procedures and complications specific to this surgical procedure.
All surgical procedures can result in infection and damage to surrounding structures.
The bone inserted to produce a fusion may not heal, which could result in additional surgery in an attempt to achieve a solid fusion. Disc levels above and below the fusion will be subjected to increased stress from the fused portion of the spine. This will typically cause premature arthritis to develop in these discs. This will usually take 15-20 years. Whether this causes the patient any symptoms is unknown.