My Spine - Cervical
Risk: There is a risk that the pain, pins and needles or weakness that you cur-
rently experience might not improve immediately following surgery, or in rare
cases, never.
Explanation: If the nerve compression had been too severe or too prolonged,
it may be irreversible. Nerves can be unforgiving and may lose part of, or
complete function. In some cases these symptoms can take some time to
improve.
Risk: There is a chance of wound infection that might require antibiotic treat-
ment and in some cases a second operation. In very rare cases, infection
might spread and become so severe that it may cause death.
Explanation: Even with the most advanced modern antiseptic techniques,
infection can occur. This is the case particularly in patients who have
depressed immunity as is seen in diabetics, smokers, HIV positive patients
and patients on long term steroid use and any other immunosuppressant
drugs.
Risk: There is always a risk of bleeding in any surgery. This may happen dur-
ing or following surgery. This may lead to compression or damage to nerves
in the period directly following the operation. Severe bleeding during the
operation might require a blood transfusion, but this is rare. In extreme cases
it may lead to death. Bleeding may also cause a swelling under the skin and
if very large and painful, or compressing vital structures, it will be necessary
to drain this blood clot with a minor surgical procedure. If the clot becomes
too large, it may compress the breathing tube (trachea), leading to breathing
difficulties.
Explanation: During surgery, all the bleeding arteries are closed with an
electric cautery. These blood vessels may, however, open up again and start
bleeding. If the blood clot grows bigger it may compress important structures
like nerves and can lead to nerve dysfunction. The specialist, however, will
inspect the wound carefully before the wound is closed and even the smallest
bleeding point is stopped.
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