Posterior Cervical Decompression & Fusion

Name: Posterior Cervical Decompression & Fusion
Creator: Edward M. DelSole, MD

Posterior cervical decompression and fusion addresses multilevel cervical stenosis, myelopathy, and instability through an approach from the back of the neck. This procedure is the preferred technique when multiple cervical levels require decompression or when the compression is primarily from behind the spinal cord — providing thorough decompression with rigid instrumented fixation.

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Is Posterior Cervical Fusion Right for You?

This procedure is an excellent option if you have:

Multilevel cervical spinal stenosis (3 or more levels)
Cervical myelopathy with gait imbalance, hand clumsiness, or weakness
Cervical instability or deformity requiring posterior fixation
Combined anterior-posterior (360-degree) reconstruction for complex pathology
Revision cervical surgery after prior anterior procedures

Procedure Overview

Procedure Time

2–4 hours depending on number of levels

Hospital Stay

1–3 nights

Recovery

Cervical collar typically worn for 6–8 weeks; return to light activity in 4–6 weeks

Key Advantage

Allows decompression across many levels with strong fixation using lateral mass and pedicle screws

How the Procedure Works

Through a midline incision in the back of the neck, the cervical lamina are removed (laminectomy) to decompress the spinal cord across multiple levels. Lateral mass screws or cervical pedicle screws are placed bilaterally and connected with rods to provide rigid fixation and maintain cervical alignment. Bone graft is placed along the instrumented segments to promote biological fusion. In some cases, this procedure is combined with an anterior approach (ACDF) to provide 360-degree stabilization for complex instability or deformity.

About Dr. Edward M. DelSole

Edward M. DelSole, MD

Dr. DelSole is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive and complex spinal procedures. He brings a commitment to patient-centered care and evidence-based surgical decision-making.

Fellowship-trained at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute (one of the nation's top spine programs)
Board-certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Chief Resident, NYU Langone Orthopaedic Surgery
Active member, Lumbar Spine Research Society and North American Spine Society
Published researcher with 30+ peer-reviewed publications

Dealing with cervical stenosis or myelopathy? Let's discuss your options.

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Edward M. DelSole, MD | Orthopaedic Spine Surgery

Wyomissing, PA | (484) 509-0840