Neck and arm pain can quietly take over your life and the ability to do even the small, easy things. Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy attacks the root cause without resorting to fusing the spine. Our Spine Specialists can determine if this treatment is right for you.
A posterior cervical foraminotomy is a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to preserve the motion of the neck by relieving nerve root compression through an incision made at the back of the neck. Most patients return home the same or the next day.
The surgeon makes a 1 to 2-inch incision on the back of the neck and carefully moves the muscles aside to access the vertebrae. Using a high-speed drill and microsurgical tools, the surgeon removes a small amount of bone, along with any bone spurs or bulging disc material that may be pressing on the nerves. X-rays are used to confirm that the correct level has been addressed and that there is sufficient space. Once this has been verified, the surgeon repositions the muscles and closes the incision with dissolvable sutures.
Patients can comfortably move their necks shortly after surgery, without a brace. On the day of surgery or the next morning, patients can begin taking frequent 5–10-minute walks. These walks improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and improve the healing process. Light activities (eating or sitting) can resume immediately. Patients must avoid “BLT” (Bending, lifting more than ten pounds, or twisting the neck) for the first few weeks. Stairs and self-care are typically safe within the first few days, and light household tasks within 1–2 weeks.
The chance of a recurrence at the same level as the original surgery is less than 10%. However, the patient’s spine continues to age, and adjacent areas to the treated area, or new symptoms in other areas, may require medical attention.
A traditional “open” Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy requires a 1–2-inch incision; a minimally invasive one using endoscopic techniques requires an incision of less than 1 inch. The patient can easily conceal the incision (on the back of the neck) with their hairline. Surgeons typically use internal, dissolvable stitches and skin glue to minimize external scarring. Scars soften and fade substantially in 6-9 months.
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Stop adapting your life around nerve pain. We can relieve pressure on the affected nerve while preserving the natural movement of your neck. Schedule a consultation with our spine specialists today to learn whether Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy may be the right motion-preserving solution for your symptoms.
