
Cervical spinal fusion is a surgical operation that joins certain bones in the neck (cervical spine). A cervical spinal fusion can be done in several ways:
Bone can be obtained from other body regions or purchased from a bone bank (a bone graft). The bone is utilized to connect adjacent vertebrae, and the bone transplant promotes the development of new bone. Artificial fusion materials can also be used.
- Metal implants can hold the vertebrae together until new bone grows.
- Metal plates can be screwed into the bone to join adjacent vertebrae.
- When a whole vertebra is removed, the spine might be united.
- When a spinal disc is removed, the surrounding vertebrae might be reconnected.
This procedure can be done through an incision on the anterior or posterior of the neck.