Current Concept on the Surgical Treatment by Anterior Approach in Degenerative Cervical Radiculopathy

ABSTRACT

STUDY DESIGN: A review of the literature regarding anterior cervical surgery in degenerative cervical radiculopathy. OBJECTIVES: To review and discuss anterior cervical spine surgery. SUMMARY OF LITERATURE REVIEW Anterior cervical spine surgery is commonly used to treat numerous pathologic entities and is expected to increase with the development of surgical techniques and instruments. Nevertheless, there is some controversy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literatures review. RESULTS: Surgical treatments using the anterior approach in degenerative cervical disease have shown excellent results. A range of techniques using plate augmentation and artificial disc replacement are now accepted as effective methods. CONCLUSIONS: The appropriate method considering the pathologic status of the patient and surgeon's surgical experience can prevent complications and lead to excellent surgical outcomes.