Edward Jung, MD, MS Edward Jung, MD, MS

Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion (PCDF) in Seattle

What is Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion?

Posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCDF) is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or nerves in the neck region.

To see if Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion (PCDF) is an option for you, contact spine specialist Edward Jung, MD, MS to schedule an appointment in Seattle. Dr. Jung is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and has extensive experience performing safe and effective PCDF procedures. Give us a call at (206) 860-5578 today to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion for Spinal Conditions

You may be a candidate if you have:

What Does PCDF Do?

By decompressing the spinal cord or nerves and stabilizing the affected segment of the spine, PCDF aims to:

  • Relieve pain
  • Improve mobility
  • Prevent further neurological damage

How does PCDF Work?

During this procedure, your surgeon will remove structures that compress the spinal cord or nerves. This procedure is often combined with fusion.

Fusion occurs where two or more vertebrae are permanently joined together. Your surgeon does this by using bone grafts and implants. Fusion helps stabilize the spine and prevent abnormal motion between the vertebrae.

By relieving pressure, blood can better flow to your spinal cord. This helps prevent functional loss and can improve your functional ability.

What Happens During PCDF

Before surgery, you will talk with your provider about your symptoms and undergo a thorough evaluation. You may need imaging or a physical exam to see the spine and nerves involved.

You will have general anesthesia and your surgeon will make an incision on the back of the neck and remove anything that is compressing the spinal cord or nerves. This may include bone spurs, herniated disc material, or thickened ligaments. After the decompression is complete, your surgeon will place bone graft material to promote bone growth and fusion. It may also require metal implants to stabilize the spine while fusion occurs. The surgeon will then close the incision and you will be monitored during recovery.

You will likely stay in the hospital for a few days to help manage pain. You may be asked to wear a hard cervical collar for a few weeks to help promote safe healing.

You may also need  physical therapy after surgery to help regain movement and improve your strength and flexibility.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you think you could benefit from a PCDF procedure from a board-certified spine surgeon, contact spine specialist Edward Jung, MD, MS today to schedule an appointment in Seattle. Give us a call at (206) 860-5578 to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Sources

https://www.neuro-spine-ortho.com/health-services/neuroscience-spine-orthopedic-institute/spine-back-and-neck/minimally-invasive-spine-surgery/neck-procedures/posterior-cervical-decompression-fusion/

https://mayfieldclinic.com/pe-decompression.html

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