Anterior Cervical Osteophytectomy
At Dr. Deborah Blades Neurosurgery, serving patients across Northeast Ohio, we provide specialized surgical care for spine and nerve conditions. One such procedure is the Anterior Cervical Osteophytectomy, which is performed to relieve symptoms caused by abnormal bone growths known as osteophytes.
Osteophytes, commonly called bone spurs, can develop along the cervical spine as a result of arthritis, disc degeneration, or other wear-and-tear changes. In some patients, these spurs press against the esophagus or airway, leading to difficulty swallowing, throat discomfort, or even breathing issues. When conservative treatments are not effective, surgical removal of the osteophytes may be recommended.
“This procedure can provide dramatic relief for patients experiencing difficulty swallowing or chronic throat discomfort caused by cervical bone spurs.” – Dr. Deborah Blades
During an anterior cervical osteophytectomy, Dr. Blades makes a small incision at the front of the neck and carefully removes the bone spurs pressing on surrounding structures. Because the procedure directly targets the source of compression, many patients experience significant improvement in swallowing and throat comfort shortly after surgery.
Benefits of Osteophytectomy
- Relief from difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Reduced throat or neck pressure caused by bone spurs
- Improved breathing comfort when osteophytes affect the airway
- Minimally invasive approach with a small incision
Recovery typically involves a short hospital stay and a gradual return to normal activity. While healing times vary, most patients notice improvements quickly, especially with swallowing. Dr. Blades and her team provide thorough follow-up care to ensure a safe recovery and long-term success.
If you have been diagnosed with cervical bone spurs and are experiencing swallowing difficulties or other related symptoms, Dr. Deborah Blades and her expert team in Northeast Ohio are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to discuss whether an anterior cervical osteophytectomy may be right for you.
Recovery typically involves a short hospital stay and a gradual return to normal activity. While healing times vary, most patients notice improvements quickly, especially with swallowing. Dr. Blades and her team provide thorough follow-up care to ensure a safe recovery and long-term success.
If you have been diagnosed with cervical bone spurs and are experiencing swallowing difficulties or other related symptoms, Dr. Deborah Blades and her expert team in Northeast Ohio are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to discuss whether an anterior cervical osteophytectomy may be right for you.