Selecting the Ideal Clinic and Surgeon for Your Cervical Corpectomy Surgery

Spinal cord issues are becoming more common nowadays, primarily because many people spend long hours sitting at computers and don’t get enough physical activity. One of the most frequent spinal problems is spinal stenosis, where excessive pressure is placed on the spinal cord for various reasons. A procedure called a corpectomy is often used to relieve this pressure. Specifically, bone spurs can create pressure on the spinal cord, leading to a condition known as myelopathy. This condition can cause restricted movement and issues with bowel and bladder control, among other problems.

In cervical corpectomy surgery, a portion of the front part of the spinal column is removed. The resulting gaps are then filled with bone grafts to promote the growth of new bone, which fuses the adjacent vertebrae together. This type of surgery is typically performed when bone spurs have affected multiple vertebrae and cannot be corrected by anterior cervical discectomy with fusion.

Preparation for this surgery is crucial for both the surgeon and the patient. One key preparation is stopping all tobacco consumption immediately, as it can negatively impact the surgery. Tobacco use can slow bone growth, increase the risk of infections, delay healing, and even jeopardize the success of the fusion. Patients should also inform their surgeon about any regular medications they are taking, as some might need to be paused a few days before surgery. Most surgeons provide a detailed set of pre-surgery instructions for their patients.

Choosing the right clinic and surgeon is equally important. Since cervical corpectomy is a major surgery that requires specialized tools and equipment, it should be performed at a well-equipped hospital or nursing center. The surgeon you select should be experienced and have a good track record with this type of procedure. By carefully considering these factors, you can increase the likelihood of a successful surgery.