Condition
Cervical Myelopathy
Treatments
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
If a herniated disc is compressing the nerve, the disc may need to be removed. Once this is removed, a graft must be placed where the disc used to be. Sometimes it is beneficial to fuse the vertebra together, a procedure known as an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).
In this procedure, a graft is placed, which enables the two vertebrae to become one as they heal. This is usually performed if there are advanced degenerative changes.
Cervical Disc Replacement
Other times, once the disc is removed, a disc replacement can be placed. This device preserves motion at the level of the removed disc and eliminates the need to fuse two bones together.
Doing so preserves the natural biomechanics of the spine and when compared to fusion can reduce the rate of further degeneration as well as the risk of future surgery. This procedure can usually be performed if the degenerative changes are mild.
Case Study - 72 year old
Over the course of 6 months, a 72 year old man noticed worsening numbness and tingling in his hands and feet, and weakness in both of his hands. An MRI showed severe narrowing of the spinal canal at the C3-4 level resulting in squeezing of the spinal canal and increased signal within the spinal cord.
A C3-4 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion was performed, and he had resolution of his symptoms within 6 weeks of surgery.


Case Study - 34 year old
A 34 year old martial arts specialist noticed worsening weakness in his fingers and wrist on the right and left sides. An MRI showed a significant C5-6 disc herniation resulting in spinal cord compression.
Given his young age and level of activity, a disc replacement which would preserve motion was performed. After surgery he regained his strength, and returned to participating in martial arts.


