Anterior cervical fusion surgery is a common procedure used to treat various cervical spine conditions, including degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis. While the surgery is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it comes with potential risks and complications. It's essential for individuals considering anterior cervical fusion surgery to be aware of these risks and discuss them thoroughly with their healthcare provider. Here are some of the potential risks associated with anterior cervical fusion surgery:
1. Infection:
Infection is a risk with any surgical procedure. Although measures are taken to maintain a sterile environment during surgery, there is still a risk of postoperative infections. Infections can occur at the incision site or in the deeper tissues around the cervical spine. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, increased pain, and fever.
2. Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing):
Anterior cervical fusion surgery involves working in close proximity to the esophagus. As a result, some patients may experience difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. This usually resolves on its own within a few weeks, but in some cases, it may persist, and patients may need to modify their diet temporarily.
3. Hoarseness or Voice Changes:
The surgery may involve manipulation of the nerves or structures related to the vocal cords, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent hoarseness or changes in voice.
4. Nerve or Spinal Cord Injury:
While uncommon, there is a risk of nerve or spinal cord injury during anterior cervical fusion surgery. Surgeons take great care to avoid such complications, but the proximity of nerves and the spinal cord increases the potential for injury. Nerve damage can lead to weakness, numbness, or pain in the arms or legs.
5. Graft-related Issues:
Anterior cervical fusion involves the use of a bone graft to promote the fusion of adjacent vertebrae. There can be issues with the graft, including incomplete fusion (non-union) or excessive motion (pseudoarthrosis). Additional surgery may be required if fusion does not occur as expected.
6. Hardware-related Complications:
The use of hardware such as plates and screws is common in anterior cervical fusion surgery to stabilize the spine during the healing process. Hardware-related complications may include hardware failure, migration, or irritation of surrounding structures.
7. Blood Vessel Damage:
There is a small risk of damage to blood vessels near the surgical site, which can lead to bleeding or hematoma formation. While this risk is low, it can require intervention if significant bleeding occurs.
It's crucial to note that the likelihood of these complications varies among individuals, and that anterior fusion surgery is one of the most common types of spine surgery. Most patients undergo anterior cervical fusion surgery without experiencing significant issues. The decision to undergo surgery should be based on a careful evaluation of the potential benefits and risks, taking into consideration the specific condition and overall health of the individual. Patients should thoroughly discuss these risks with their surgeon and seek a second opinion if needed before making an informed decision about the surgical intervention.
After Spine Surgery was developed with the providers at Coastal Spine Institute, PC to help patients and caregivers prepare for the recovery process after spine surgery. The recommendations in this guide may not be applicable to your spine surgery. Consult with your medical team.