Watch Dr. Sarraj explain
After your surgery
Your postoperative protocol
Dr. Sarraj’s instructions for activity, medicines, wound care and follow-up. Your hospital discharge instructions and individual care plan take priority.
Cervical corpectomy
Anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion.
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What the operation involves
A corpectomy removes part or all of a vertebral body and the adjacent discs through the front of the neck. It can reach pressure behind the vertebral body that a disc-only operation may not adequately address. A graft or cage and fixation support the spine while the bones fuse.
Recovery and collar support
Use the corpectomy protocol above for your collar, activity limits, medicines and follow-up. A hard collar provides extra support during the first six weeks. Follow any individual instructions from the hospital.
All collars may be removed when your head is supported, for eating and for showering. Hold your head still and in a neutral position when the collar is off. The stability is internal; the collar adds support and helps prevent excessive movement.
Swallowing and wound care
Swallowing discomfort can increase around two or three days after an anterior neck operation as swelling increases. Soft foods such as soup and smoothies may be easier initially. Follow your hospital instructions.
Follow the wound-care plan given at discharge. Sutures may need to be removed at the two-week follow-up.
Risks and warning signs
Risks include infection, bleeding, swallowing or voice problems, nerve or spinal cord injury, implant problems and failure of fusion.
Call 911 for breathing difficulty or rapidly increasing neck swelling. Inability to swallow liquids or saliva, new or worsening weakness, or new bladder or bowel dysfunction needs immediate assessment. Repeated coughing or choking with drinks also needs urgent advice.
Questions for your appointment
- What is the main goal of this treatment for me?
- Which symptoms are likely to improve, and which may remain?
- What are the alternatives and the risks of waiting?
- What help will I need at home, and when can I return to my usual activities?
Educational information to support your consultation. The options, risks, and recovery described here may differ from your individual plan. Contact your treating team about new or changing symptoms.