Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy
Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy (Microscopic)
The foramen, the small opening within or between the vertebra, provides the passageway for a nerve. If the disc has ruptured or the body of a vertebra has collapsed, the foramen is distorted or made smaller, pressing on the nerve. This pressure on the nerve causes pain. Using advanced microscopic imaging, computers, software and tracking technology the surgeon is able to clearly see and maneuver at the same time within a very limited area. This limited movement reduces injury to surrounding tissues, resulting in less trauma and a faster recovery. Tiny portions of the bone surrounding the foramen are removed, leaving a larger canal for the nerve to occupy without pressure. New technologies used in the microscopic posterior cervical foraminotomy help the surgeon avoid injury to the nerve during the procedure.
