Posterior Cervical Decompression and Foraminotomy
What is Posterior Cervical Decompression and Foraminotomy?
Posterior cervical decompression and foraminotomy is a surgical procedure performed to relieve nerve compression in the neck. This approach is used when pressure on the spinal nerves is best addressed from the back of the neck. The surgery creates more space for the nerves by removing bone or tissue that is compressing them, helping to alleviate pain, numbness, and weakness.
An incision is made over the affected area, and a small window is created in the back of the spine to access and decompress the nerves. This minimally invasive approach helps improve mobility and reduce nerve-related symptoms.
Who Can Benefit from Posterior Cervical Decompression and Foraminotomy?
This procedure may be recommended for patients experiencing:
- Nerve compression in the cervical spine, leading to arm pain, weakness, or numbness.
- Cervical radiculopathy, where a nerve is pinched as it exits the spine.
- Foraminal stenosis, a condition where the openings (foramina) through which nerves exit the spine become narrowed.
- Persistent symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatments like physiotherapy or injections.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before Surgery
- A full assessment, including MRI or CT scans, will confirm the need for nerve decompression.
- You will receive pre-operative instructions, including fasting guidelines.
- The surgical plan, including the extent of decompression required, will be discussed with you.
During Surgery
- The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
- A small incision is made at the back of the neck over the affected area.
- A laminotomy (small removal of bone from the spinal canal) or foraminotomy (widening of the nerve exit space) is performed to relieve nerve compression.
- The surrounding muscles and soft tissues are carefully preserved to minimise recovery time.
- The incision is closed with minimal tissue disruption.
- The surgery typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on the number of levels treated.
After Surgery
- You will be monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room.
- Pain relief medication and mobility support will be provided.
- Most patients return home the following day.
Recovery & Aftercare
Pain Relief
Many patients experience immediate improvement in arm pain, with gradual recovery of nerve function over the following weeks. Patients will start resuming normal activities after 6 weeks.
Activity Restrictions
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Light activities can be resumed within a few days.
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Heavy lifting and excessive neck movements should be avoided for several weeks.
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A soft collar may be recommended in some cases for additional support.
Physiotherapy
A tailored rehabilitation program may be introduced to improve neck mobility and muscle strength.
Follow-Up
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Regular follow-ups will be scheduled to monitor healing and nerve recovery.
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X-rays or scans may be performed to assess long-term spinal stability.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most patients return to normal activities within 4–6 weeks. Full recovery may take a few months, depending on the extent of nerve compression and individual healing.
Expert Spinal Care at Thames Spine
At Thames Spine, Consultant Spinal Surgeon Mr. Daniel Rolton provides expert care for cervical spine conditions requiring decompression. If you are experiencing persistent nerve pain or cervical radiculopathy, posterior cervical decompression and foraminotomy may be the right treatment for you.
Contact Thames Spine today to book a consultation and discuss your treatment options.