Cervical Fusion

Explanation of Cervical Spine Surgery
You are scheduled for surgery on your cervical spine. This may or may not include a fusion of the cervical spine. Dr. Taylor has determined the type of procedure that is necessary after reviewing your symptoms, which included a physical assessment of your symptoms, your x-rays, and other studies that you have completed.

The Cervical Spine
Your cervical spine is composed of 7 bones known as vertebrae. The vertebrae in the cervical spine are cushioned by an elastic-type shock absorber known as the disc. The first two cervical vertebrae do not have discs between them. Each disc has a soft center, known as the nucleus, which is surrounded by a tough outer ring, known as the annulus. The discs allow motion between the vertebrae. The discs, bony structures, ligaments, and strong muscles all work together to stabilize the spine. The spinal cord connects the brain to the rest of the body. The spinal cord and nerves travel from the cervical spine through to the