Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery - Posterior Cervical Fusion (PCF)

Posterior Cervical Fusion is the general term used to describe the technique of surgically repairing two or more cervical vertebrae together along the sides of the bone using a posterior incision on the back of the neck. Bone grafts are placed along the sides the vertebraes which fuse together over time.

Posterior Cervical Fusion may be performed with or without a laminectomy and/or the use of metal screws and rods. Screws and rods are usually used to add stability and increase the rate of successful fusions, where the bones knit together securely.

Posterior Cervical Fusion surgery is commonly performed on patients with cervical fractures or other instabilities. It is also used to treat a variety of other spinal conditions such as tumors, infections and deformities. Posterior Cervical Fusion may also be performed in conjunction with anterior cervical surgery.

Surgical Procedure
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Patients are positioned on their stomachs. A small incision is made over the affected areas of the spine. Removal of the lamina portion of vertebrae and removal of bone spurs may be performed if necessary. Two small metal screws can be affixed to each vertebrae which are then connected together with a titanium rod on each side of the spine. The bony surfaces and facet joints are then resurfaced and a bone graft is implanted which knits together over time.

The surgery usually lasts approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the number of vertebrae involved.

Notice:

This advertisement has been provided for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or an actual diagnosis. If you are experiencing pain that may be associated with back or neck disorders you should seek the care of a doctor as soon as possible or immediately if your symptoms are accompanied by incontinence / loss of bladder or bowel control, as these may be signs of life threatening condition.

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