Overview of operations on the cervical spine
The cervical spine is very complex and in the structure very different depending on the considered height . Therefore, it is also correspondingly divided into sections. The upper cervical spine represents the transition to the head and is very mobile. The joints are designed in accordance to that. The connection between the 1st and 2nd cervical vertebrae is classic. Here the dens (tooth) of the second cervical vertebrae protudes into the "ring" of the first cervical vertebrae. Therefore head rotation is possible. The link between the first cervical vertebrae and the back of the head allows an optimum angle. Because of this flexibility, the upper cervical spine is vulnerable to injury. The best known is the so-called whiplash injury, for example, where a hyperextension of ligaments and joints, but also the neck muscles, occurs at a collision. Here, the structures of the upper cervical spine are most affected.
Similar to these differences and nuances, the operational strategies are being shaped. Problems in the cervical spine can generally be operated from the front or the back, but can also be combined. The access depends on various factors, and each case is planned individually.
On these pages the various surgical options at the cervical spine are presented. All here demonstrated operations were performed by Prof. Woiciechowsky personally. He is instructor and lecturer for these techniques. You can get information here, but should come into practice in case of need and for advice. This consultation is individualised according to your disease.
