[Cervical intervertebral disk prolapse. Diagnosis, differential diagnosis and surgical therapy]

Among the so-called cervical spine syndromes cervical disc prolapse represents a well defined disease entity which should be kept in mind considering treatment resistant painful neck and shoulder as well as neurological dysfunctions of this region. Differential therapy consists of conservative measures and especially a variety of surgical procedures for cervical disc syndromes. Under all circumstances decision for surgery has to take into consideration the individual psychological situation (e.g. expectations of the patient) and social factors (e.g. the patient's occupation). Therefore a close cooperation of the family doctor and the surgeon is required. The aim of this article is to point out the neurosurgical aspects as well as the point of view of the general practitioner at the same time.