Cervical myelopathy is compression of the spinal cord in the neck region. It is a serious condition that can lead to progressive neurological decline if untreated.
Understanding Cervical Myelopathy
The spinal cord can become compressed by disc herniations, bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).
Why Early Treatment Matters
Unlike nerve compression, spinal cord damage may not be fully reversible. Early surgical decompression gives the best chance for preventing permanent disability.
Surgical Options
- ACDF: Anterior approach for 1-2 level disease
- Corpectomy: For severe multi-level compression
- Laminoplasty: Expanding the spinal canal from the back
- Posterior laminectomy with fusion: For multi-level disease
Common Symptoms
- Difficulty with balance and walking
- Hand clumsiness and poor fine motor skills
- Numbness in hands and feet
- Stiffness in legs
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Urgency or difficulty with urination
Treatment Options
ACDF surgery
Cervical corpectomy
Laminoplasty
Posterior laminectomy with fusion
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Dr. Marcus Stephens and Dr. Jerry Walters II
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
Providing expert cervical myelopathy treatment at Nova Brain and Spine of GA in Hampton, Georgia. Serving patients throughout Southern Georgia and the Atlanta metro area.