Cervical Spine / Neck Surgery
Surgery involving the cervical spine (neck) may be required to treat a range of conditions affecting the spine, nerves, and surrounding structures. Surgery is usually needed to treat the following conditions:
Trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries facial sensations such as pain, pressure, and temperature to the brain. It is often caused by compression or damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) surrounding the nerve.
Symptoms
Symptoms typically include sudden, severe, sharp, or shooting facial pain, usually affecting one side of the face or jaw.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
A neurological examination will be performed to determine the location and possible cause of the pain. Diagnostic imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, may be used to examine the trigeminal nerve and identify any underlying causes, such as blood vessel compression or tumours.
Treatment usually begins with medications, including anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, or other medications used to control nerve pain. If symptoms persist despite medication, procedures such as glycerol injections, radiosurgery, or microsurgery may be recommended. These treatments aim to reduce pressure on the nerve or interrupt pain signals.
Whiplash
Whiplash is an injury to the muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues of the neck, usually caused by a sudden forceful movement of the head, such as during a motor vehicle accident, sporting injury, or fall.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, neck stiffness, and headaches. Other symptoms may include dizziness, tingling sensations in the shoulders or arms, memory or concentration difficulties, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, may be performed to exclude fractures or dislocations of the cervical spine. Treatment typically includes pain-relieving medications, muscle relaxants, activity modification, and physiotherapy. A cervical collar may occasionally be recommended for a short period. Heat and cold therapy, along with gentle neck exercises, can also assist recovery.
Recovery
Most people recover from whiplash with conservative treatment and do not require surgery. Recovery may involve:
- Physiotherapy
- Activity modification and rest
- Temporary use of a cervical collar, if recommended
- Pain management
- Gradual return to normal activities
Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury.
Von Hippel-Lindau Disease (VHL)
Von Hippel–Lindau disease (VHL) is a rare inherited genetic disorder that can cause benign and malignant tumours to develop in various parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, eyes, kidneys, pancreas, and adrenal glands.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the tumours. Patients may experience headaches, dizziness, balance problems, pain, weakness, visual disturbances, or high blood pressure.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To diagnose VHL, a detailed medical and family history will be reviewed, followed by a physical and neurological examination. Genetic testing may be recommended for individuals with a family history of VHL. Additional investigations may include eye examinations and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to identify characteristic tumours and associated abnormalities.
Treatment depends on the size, location, and behaviour of the tumours. Small, asymptomatic tumours may be monitored regularly. Larger tumours or those causing symptoms may require surgery, radiation therapy, or other specialised treatments. Tumours affecting other organs may require treatment by a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the type of treatment performed and the location of the tumour. If surgery involving the cervical spine is required, the following may serve as a general guide:
- A hospital stay of approximately three to five days
- Avoidance of heavy lifting during the initial recovery period, with gradual progression of activity as advised
- Time away from work to allow for healing and recovery
- A temporary return to work on modified or restricted duties
- Restrictions on driving for approximately four to six weeks, depending on recovery progress
- Avoidance of swimming for four to six weeks
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation, as required
- Pain management with prescribed medications
Recovery varies between patients and procedures. Dr Tollesson will provide specific recommendations based on your individual circumstances and treatment plan.
