in cervical spinal fusion where does the steel plate go,Results Ready for View

in cervical spinal fusion where does the steel plate go,Introduction to Cervical Spinal Fusion In cervical spinal fusion, the steel plate is typically placed on the anterior (f

Introduction to Cervical Spinal Fusion

In cervical spinal fusion, the steel plate is typically placed on the anterior (front) part of the cervical spine. This is a common approach in many cases. The purpose of using a steel plate in this procedure is to provide stability to the fused vertebrae. When a part of the cervical spine is being fused, for example, due to a herniated disc or spinal instability, the steel plate helps to hold the vertebrae in the correct position as they heal together. It acts like a kind of internal support system, preventing unwanted movement that could disrupt the fusion process.

Benefits of Steel Plate Placement in Anterior Cervical Spinal Fusion

Placing the steel plate in the anterior position has several benefits. Firstly, it is more accessible during the surgical procedure. Surgeons can more easily reach the front of the cervical spine without having to manipulate too many other important structures. Also, it provides direct support to the area that is most likely to experience stress during normal neck movement. For example, when we turn our heads or bend our necks forward and backward, the anterior part of the spine bears a significant amount of the load. The steel plate helps to distribute this load evenly across the fused vertebrae, reducing the risk of the fusion failing.

Potential Risks Associated with Steel Plate Placement

However, like any surgical intervention, there are potential risks associated with placing a steel plate in the cervical spine. One risk is infection. Since a foreign object (the steel plate) is being introduced into the body, there is a chance that bacteria could infect the area around the plate. Another risk is that the plate could shift or loosen over time. This could happen if the patient is involved in a high - impact accident or if the bone does not heal properly around the plate. If the plate shifts, it could cause pain, nerve damage, or interfere with the fusion process.

Questions and Answers

Question 1: Why is the steel plate placed anteriorly in cervical spinal fusion?Answer: The steel plate is placed anteriorly in cervical spinal fusion because it is more accessible during surgery and provides direct support to the area that bears significant load during normal neck movement.

Question 2: What are the potential risks when a steel plate is used in cervical spinal fusion?Answer: The potential risks when a steel plate is used in cervical spinal fusion include infection as it is a foreign object, and the plate could shift or loosen over time which may cause pain, nerve damage or interfere with the fusion process.