Dr. Ahuja may choose to employ one or both cervical decompression methods in a patient’s treatment plan, especially in cases where multiple levels of vertebrae and discs are unhealthy.
Anterior Fusion
In this procedure, entire discs and vertebrae may be removed, and stabilizing cages are employed. Dr. Ahuja will also place a secured plate on the spine for further stabilization. To help regrow bone around the cage, bone collected during the surgery is placed inside the cage, stimulating regrowth during recovery. A bone stimulator may need to be worn after surgery to assist with this process.
Posterior Fusion
Posterior fusion is often done in conjunction with an anterior fusion in order to further stabilize the neck. In the posterior approach, compression on the spinal cord and nerves from the back is relieved by stabilizing the spine via secure rods. The bone removed during the surgery is ground up and used as a graft to help in the healing and fusion process.