Anterior approach to the cervical spine

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Spinal Surgery

Background:

• Cervical spine disorders require effective surgical interventions.
• Traditional posterior approaches may have limitations.
• Anterior surgical techniques offer an alternative for specific cervical pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the anterior surgical approach for cervical spine disorders.
• To outline the technique and advantages of the anterior approach.
• To report outcomes in a series of patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 66 patients (75 procedures).
• Focus on anterior surgical techniques for cervical disc disease, fracture-dislocation, and malignant disease.
• Follow-up period of one to five years.

Main Results:

• 91% good to excellent results for cervical disc disease.
• All cases of cervical fracture-dislocation achieved good results.
• Anterolateral cordotomy provided adequate pain relief in two patients with malignant disease.
• Minor, spontaneously resolving or easily correctable complications.

Conclusions:

• The anterior approach is a safe and effective surgical option for cervical spine disorders.
• Recommended over posterior approaches for cervical disc disease and fracture-dislocations.
• Offers high success rates and minimal complications.