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Corpectomy

Symptoms Cervical spinal canal can be narrowed by the formation of bone spurs, arising from the back of the vertebral body or the ligament behind the vertebral bodies. Traditional symptoms include neck pain, shoulder pain, pins and needles, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. More severe symptoms can include loss of balance, stumbling, and a loss of bowel and bladder control.
Treatment

When the spinal cord is compressed, it is important to relieve the pressure to prevent spinal cord damage. A cervical coprectomy is the removal of a portion of the vertebra, and is perfomed in addition to an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

Recovery

In most cases patients stay in the hospital for 24 hours, and generally do not need a cervical collar. Most patients will notice immediate improvement of their symptoms, however some symptoms may improve gradually. Occassionally patients will experience a sore throat or some hoarseness for a few days following surgery.A positive attitude, reasonable expectations contribute to a satisfactory outcome. Most patients discontinue pain medication and resume their regular activities within a few weeks.

  The information in eSpine.com is not intended as a substitute for medical advice but is to be used as an aid in understanding back pain and neck pain. Always consult your physician about your medical condition.

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Last modified: October 1st, 2005