Ruptured Cervical Disk Treatments

Intervertebral disks are firm rubbery plates located between the vertebrae (the spinal bones). The 7 cervical disks run from the base of the head to the top of the shoulders. Disks serve as shock absorbers when the spine moves. A disk ruptures, or herniates, when the soft inner layer punches through the tough outer layer, compressing the nerve roots nearby. Ruptured cervical disks can cause pain and weakness in the arms and hands and, depending on the location and severity, loss of bladder and bowel control and paralysis.

The goal of treatment for a ruptured cervical disk is to alleviate the compression of the nerve root or the spinal cord. Although surgery is used to treat disk ruptures, the majority of cases are treated with nonsurgical methods, such as rest, physiotherapy, chiropractic manipulation, or exercise therapy.

WHEN IS IT INDICATED?

Nonsurgical treatment is indicated in 80 to 90 percent of patients with ruptured cervical disks. If symptoms worsen or cause intense pain or disability, the physician will recommend surgery.

PRE-TREATMENT GUIDELINES

Before performing surgery, the physician may order tests including x rays, electrocardiogram (ECG), myelogram, and computed tomography (CT) scan. Surgical candidates who smoke should stop smoking approximately 2 weeks before surgery. Smoking can cause postoperative complications and interferes with recovery, especially nerve healing.

RISK FACTORS FOR POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Risk factors for possible complications of surgery include existing health problems, such as cardiac, respiratory, or other systemic diseases and smoking.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Surgical intervention includes open surgery and minimally invasive procedures. The most common procedure is called a diskectomy, which is the removal of the portion of the disk that is compressing the nerve root or spinal cord.

In open surgery, the physician makes an incision in the neck to gain access to the spine. Next, the physician gains access to the ruptured disk by removing a part of the vertebra. Once the disk is exposed, the surgeon removes the part of the disk that is pressing on the nerve or nerve root and then closes the incision.

In minimally invasive surgical techniques, the physician inserts an operating microscope or endoscope to visualize the area in which he or she is performing the procedure. Guided by the microscope or endoscope, the physician then uses microsurgical instruments to remove the portion of the disk that is pressing on the nerve or nerve root.

In some cases, the physician will perform spinal fusion to strengthen the area by filling the space of the removed disk with a small piece of bone. Often metallic screws, rods, and cages are used to facilitate fusion.

POST-PROCEDURE GUIDELINES AND CARE

Patients who have had a minimally invasive procedure are usually able to return home that day. The physician will provide specific postoperative instructions to the patient about pain management, wound care, and resumption of physical activity.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Possible complications from surgical or minimally invasive procedures to repair a ruptured disk include bleeding, infection, and paralysis.

LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENT

Patients who have had a ruptured disk can take steps to maintain the health of their necks or backs, including maintaining an ideal weight, exercising regularly, and lifting objects properly.

Main menu