POSTERIOR CERVICAL DECOMPRESSION: A MINIMALLY INVASIVE SOLUTION FOR NECK AND NERVE PAIN
Struggling with neck pain, difficulty moving, or nerve-related symptoms like arm numbness and weakness? When spinal stenosis or other conditions compress the spinal cord or nerves in your neck, it can disrupt your life. If non-surgical treatments haven’t resolved your symptoms, posterior cervical decompression surgery (PCD) may offer the long-term solution you need.
What Is Posterior Cervical Decompression Surgery?
Posterior cervical decompression is a spine surgery that relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nearby nerves. The minimally invasive posterior approach involves making a small incision along the back of the neck to access the facet joint and surrounding structures.
A PCD procedure helps to decompress the nerve root, improve circulation, and reduce neurological symptoms such as:
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The Posterior Cervical Decompression Procedure
During a posterior cervical decompression surgical procedure, the orthopedic spine surgeon carefully exposes the compressed segment of the cervical spine via a posterior approach. Through this small incision, advanced instruments are used to remove the specific part of the vertebra or disc causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Depending on the underlying issue—whether spinal stenosis, herniated disc, or facet joint overgrowth—the procedure may involve laminotomy (removing part of the lamina to decompress the spinal canal) or foraminotomy (enlarging the foramen to relieve pressure on an affected nerve root).
Compared to other procedures, such as an anterior cervical discectomy, the PCD technique is ideal when compression is located more towards the back of the neck or when multiple levels are involved.
Posterior cervical decompression surgery highlights
Posterior cervical decompression surgery is a specialized treatment that offers rapid relief from nerve/spinal cord compression with minimal downtime. Key benefits of this surgical approach include:
- Minimally invasive: Performed through a small incision to reduce tissue damage and scarring
- Targeted pain relief: Precisely removes pressure from the spinal cord and nerve root
- Quicker recovery: Most patients return home the same day and resume light activities within a few days
As with any surgery, a posterior cervical decompression carries inherent risks and potential complications which, although relatively uncommon, can occur. At Ortho Westmount, our team's focus is on minimizing these risks through meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive post-operative care. Potential complications specific to PCD include:
- Risks include
Infection of the surgical site - Neurologic deficit: some loss of nerve motor or sensory function, causing weakness or numbness
- C5 palsy: shoulder weakness or paralysis from nerve damage
- Dural tear: a tear in the membrane covering the spinal cord, leading to fluid leakage
Tenderness, numbness, weakness, or stiffness- Abnormal forward bending of the spine near the surgical area
- Failure of the bones to properly heal and fuse after surgery
Personalized Care Every Step of the Way
From pre-surgical consultations to post-operative recovery, the team at Ortho Westmount will provide comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. We use a multimodal pain management strategy and monitor your progress closely to ensure you’re on track for a full recovery. Whether you're seeking relief from chronic back pain or preparing for spine surgery, our priority is to restore your quality of life and help you return to the activities you love. For more information on treatment options and surgery cost, our team is here to help.
Ready to Take
the First Step?
Struggling with neck pain or nerve-related symptoms? Ortho Westmount is here to help. Our expert spine surgeons will work with you to determine if a posterior cervical decompression is the right solution for your condition.
