How much pain is normal after cervical fusion?

9) Expect neck pain for 1-2 weeks after surgery at the incision and even extending out to the shoulder. Some people have a flare up of arm pain, twinges in the arms, and tingling down the arms for the first 4 weeks following surgery. This is just inflammation and will settle down.

Why do I still have pain after ACDF surgery?

The most common reason for experiencing continued nerve pain after a fusion surgery is inadequate decompression of a pinched nerve during the initial procedure. If the spinal cord nerve is still fully or partially compressed, you’ll have lingering pain and symptoms afterward.

How long does it take to feel better after ACDF surgery?

Recovery After ACDF Surgery Some factors that impact recovery time include your overall health and lifestyle choices, complications during or after the procedure and how closely you follow your recovery instructions. Typically, patients make a full recovery within two to six weeks.

How long does pain last after cervical disc replacement?

Pain should improve over the first few days such that you can switch to acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Most people no longer need any pain medications 10 to 14 days after cervical artificial disc replacement surgery. Some patients have persistent or delayed onset of nerve pain.

How long will I have pain after ACDF?

It is normal to have some level of neck discomfort and stiffness after ACDF. This can persist for weeks, or even months. Improvements in neck pain and stiffness can take many months to become evident so it is important to be patient with your recovery.

How long does pain last after ACDF?

Pain in the back of the neck and between the shoulder blades is common after ACDF surgery. It also is normal to have some swallowing difficulty. These usually get better over the next few weeks. If you have trouble breathing, call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately.

What are the signs of a failed cervical fusion?

Symptoms

• Smoking.
• Formation of scar tissue.
• Recurring or persistent disc disease at adjacent levels.
• Continued pressure from spinal stenosis.
• Instability or abnormal movement.
• Pseudoarthrosis or failure of the fusion.
• Nerve damage within the nerve, arachnoiditis.

Why do my shoulders hurt after ACDF surgery?

Some patients are surprised that the most bothersome pain immediately following ACDF surgery may not be in the neck but rather in the upper back and shoulders (due to the fusion altering the attached muscles’ biomechanics) or in the hip (if bone graft was taken from there).

How should I sleep after cervical neck surgery?

The best way to reduce your pain as well as your risk of developing a post-procedural complication is to sleep on your back with a pillow placed under your knees. This provides the cervical and thoracic spine with much-needed support, easing your pain. It’s also important to keep your arms at your sides, if possible.

How should you sleep after ACDF surgery?

Sleeping on the side or back is recommended versus sleeping on the stomach. Adding a pillow between the knees when sleeping on the side, or under the legs when sleeping on the back, may be helpful. If sleeping troubles become a pattern, the doctor should be contacted.

Can I damage my ACDF surgery?

While uncommon, as with all surgery there are a number of risks and potential complications that can occur as a result of a cervical decompression and fusion surgery, including: Hemorrhage or formation of a wound hematoma. Damage to the carotid or vertebral artery resulting in a stroke or excessive bleeding, even death.