Cervical Fusion: When Surgery Is the Best Option

Female doctor discussing cervical fusion surgery with an elderly patient experiencing herniated disc deterioration from prolonged work hours. Neck pain caused by cervical spine issues can be debilitating, affecting daily life and overall well-being. While non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense, there are instances when cervical fusion surgery becomes the most effective solution for long-term relief. Understanding when surgery is the right option can help you make an informed decision about your care.

At Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, our doctors, including Dr. Kendrick Khoo and Dr. Serena Liu, bring extensive expertise in managing cervical spine conditions. Dr. Khoo, with his advanced spine surgery training at the University of California Davis, and Dr. Liu, specializing in minimally invasive and motion-preserving techniques, forms a team that provides exceptional care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

When Is Cervical Fusion the Best Option?

Cervical fusion is often recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to alleviate symptoms or when the condition poses a risk of further complications. Surgery may be the best option for:

  • Severe nerve compression: Persistent tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms and hands due to nerve impingement.
  • Spinal instability: Conditions like spondylolisthesis or severe degenerative disc disease causing abnormal spinal movement.
  • Chronic pain: Neck pain that significantly impacts daily activities and remains unresponsive to conservative therapies.
  • Trauma or injury: Fractures or dislocations in the cervical spine requiring stabilization.

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) surgery has demonstrated high success rates. Studies indicate that between 93% to 100% of patients experience relief from arm pain, while 73% to 83% report significant improvement in neck pain following the procedure. 

Benefits of Cervical Fusion Surgery

Cervical fusion offers several advantages for patients dealing with debilitating neck pain and spinal conditions. Key benefits include:

  • Long-term pain relief: Removing the source of nerve compression significantly reduces discomfort.
  • Enhanced stability: Fusing vertebrae restores proper spinal alignment and prevents further damage.
  • Improved quality of life: Patients often regain the ability to perform daily activities without pain or limitations.

By addressing the underlying cause of cervical spine issues, cervical fusion surgery provides a durable solution for patients whose conditions cannot be managed through non-surgical methods. 

Explore Cervical Spine Solutions with Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland

If you’re experiencing chronic neck pain and want to explore options, contact Northwest Spine Surgery in Portland, OR, at 503-253-4000. Our experienced team is here to guide you toward the best solution for lasting relief and improved quality of life.

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