Neck surgery is a big step. While its results can provide significant and long-lasting relief, it is considered a major procedure and can cause short-term lifestyle changes. Understanding what to expect is vital when making the right decision. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute has locations near you in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Here, we discuss the process of cervical spine surgery to help patients prepare.
Key Takeaways
- Neck surgery is often a major procedure that comes with some short-term restrictions.
- NU-Spine offers a full range of neck surgeries for a variety of neck conditions.
- The neck surgery process begins with a preliminary appointment, then proceeds to check-in, the procedure itself, a short hospital stay, and recovery at home.
Common Neck Surgeries Performed at NU-Spine
The spine surgeons at NU-Spine have expertise in performing a variety of neck surgery procedures. They specialize in using minimally invasive techniques, which reduce surgical trauma for less pain, lower infection risk, and a faster recovery. Neck procedures we offer include:
- Endoscopic cervical rhizotomy
- Cervical discectomy
- Cervical microdiscectomy
- Cervical laminectomy
- Cervical hemilaminectomy
- Cervical disc replacement
- Cervical spinal fusion
The goal of surgery is always to reduce the patient’s pain and improve their quality of life. Surgery is most often recommended for patients whose symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment methods. For these individuals, surgery can provide significant relief without relying on medications.
Pre-Operation Preparation
Before neck surgery, the patient will meet their surgical team. The surgeon will perform a physical exam and order imaging tests to plan the procedure. He will also provide instructions to prepare for surgery, which may include:
- Seeing a primary care physician or cardiologist
- Stopping smoking
- Pausing blood thinner medications
- Avoiding alcoholic beverages the day before surgery
- Arranging a ride home after surgery
The preliminary meeting is also a good opportunity to ask questions about the procedure. Patients are encouraged to learn more to feel confident about their treatment.
Arrival and Check-In
On the surgery day itself, the patient will arrive and check in at the surgical center. They will meet the surgical and anesthesia team again. There will be an opportunity to ask any remaining questions. Once the patient is ready, they will sign the final consent form. The surgeon will then perform a handful of tests, such as a blood pressure test, to ensure that the patient is healthy for surgery.
In the Operating Room
It is now time to enter the operating room. An anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia, a drug that keeps the patient asleep during the procedure. While the anesthesia takes effect, the patient is positioned onto the operating table. The patient may be asked to lie on their front, side, or back, depending on which procedure will be performed. The next steps include:
- The surgeon will make a small incision over the part of the back to be treated.
- Using tools called dilators, the surgeon will pull skin and soft tissues aside. This allows for access to the spine without excessive cutting.
- An endoscope, or a tiny camera mounted on a flexible tube, may be used to guide the surgeon’s tools while working through a tiny incision.
- Once the procedure is complete, the tools are removed, and the incision is closed with stitches.
The total operation time depends on the procedure, but most neck surgeries take one to several hours.
Immediate Post-Op and Early Recovery
After the procedure, the patient will be taken to a recovery room to wake up from anesthesia. They may wake up connected to various medical machines. These machines are to monitor the patient’s condition and ensure that they wake up safely. Once awake, they will be taken to a hospital room. The patient stays at the hospital until the following criteria for safe discharge are met:
- Stable vital functions
- Ability to walk and use stairs
- Ability to eat and drink
- Ability to manage pain without IVs
While some patients can go home the same day as their procedure, others may need to spend the night at the hospital.
Recovering at Home
After discharge, the surgical team will provide instructions for recovery at home. Their instructions will cover topics, including:
- Taking pain relief medications and antibiotics
- Protecting the incision and keeping it clean
- Walking about to encourage blood flow
- Avoiding strenuous activities until the site heals
- Alerting the doctor to signs of infection
The team will also schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the patient’s recovery. Every person recovers at their own rate. It is important to follow medical guidance and avoid rushing recovery to prevent complications.
Learn More About Neck Surgery Near You in NJ, FL, or PA
If you are struggling with neck pain, then transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, where we provide cutting-edge procedures for all spine conditions. Contact us today to learn more about neck surgeries or to schedule an appointment at a location near you in New Jersey, Florida, or Pennsylvania.
Neck Surgery FAQ
How long will I be at the surgery center?
At a minimum, you will be at the surgery center for a couple of hours. Many patients stay overnight.
Can someone other than a family member drive me home?
Somebody other than a family member can drive you home if you sign a medical discharge form.
What if I feel too sick to go home the same day?
If you feel too sick to go home the same day as your procedure, then you can spend a night at the hospital.