Cervical Hernia
The intervertebral disc tissue, which we call the cushion between the vertebrae, has an outer part (annulus fibrosus) and an inner part (nucleus pulposus). A herniated disc in the neck occurs when the gelatinous inner part ruptures the stronger connective tissue outer part, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
The patient experiences severe neck pain accompanied by pain and numbness radiating to the arm. Over time, if the torn cartilage presses on the nerves, weakness in the arm may occur; if it also presses on the spinal cord, movement disorders may develop throughout the body. In very advanced stages of the disease, patients may become bedridden.
In cervical disc herniation surgery, the entire disc between both vertebrae is removed and replaced with either a cervical disc prosthesis or a cage called a cervical cage.
In cervical disc herniation surgery, the entire disc is removed, so there is no possibility of the disc recurring at the operated level.
Cervical disc herniation surgery is much more successful than lumbar disc herniation surgery. The patient recovers as soon as the surgery is over. Because the patient received anesthesia, there is only a slight dizziness for one day, which is common in all patients who receive anesthesia. Due to the tube placed in the throat, there may be a sore throat when swallowing for a few days. Apart from that, it is an extremely comfortable surgery for the patient.
Complications following cervical disc herniation surgery are extremely rare. Hoarseness or esophageal perforation are among the rare complications.