Posterior Cervical Fusion

Posterior Cervical Fusion (PCF) is a surgical procedure performed to stabilize the neck (cervical spine) and relieve nerve or spinal cord compression.
During the surgery, Dr. Tristan Fried uses a posterior approach — making an incision in the back of the neck — to place bone grafts and implants (screws and rods) that fuse two or more vertebrae together.

This stops painful or abnormal motion between vertebrae, restores stability, and helps prevent further nerve or spinal cord damage.
 

The posterior approach provides direct access to the back of the spine, making it ideal for:

• Multi-level compression or deformity affecting several vertebrae
   
• Cases requiring wider decompression of the spinal cord and nerves
   
• Revision surgeries for patients with previous anterior (front of the neck) procedures
   
• Complex conditions that need stronger stabilization
   
• Severe instability or deformity caused by trauma or advanced degeneration
   

Key advantage: Posterior fusion provides powerful stabilization for complex or multi-level cervical spine problems.
 

• Cervical spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
   
• Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression)
   
• Spondylolisthesis in the cervical spine
   
• Degenerative disc disease with instability
   
• Fractures or trauma to the neck
   
• Spinal tumors requiring decompression and stabilization
   
• Severe deformities, such as kyphosis
   
• Failed prior neck surgery requiring revision

• Incision: A midline incision is made along the back of the neck.
   
• Exposure: Muscles are carefully moved aside to access the spine.
   
• Decompression: Bone spurs, thickened ligaments, or other tissue compressing the nerves or spinal cord are removed.
   
• Fusion placement:
   
• Bone grafts (either from the patient or a donor) are placed between the vertebrae.
   
• Screws and rods are inserted to secure the bones in position.
   
• Closure: The muscles and skin are carefully closed in layers to promote healing.
   

• Relieves pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
   
• Stabilizes unstable vertebrae, preventing further slippage or deformity
   
• Can address multiple levels of compression in a single surgery
   
• Provides long-lasting pain relief and improved function
   
• Strong and reliable fixation for complex cervical spine conditions
   

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Persistent neck pain, numbness, or weakness despite conservative treatment
   
• Balance problems or difficulty walking due to spinal cord compression
   
• Imaging that shows multi-level stenosis, deformity, or instability
   
• A failed previous neck surgery that requires revision
   
• A traumatic injury requiring stabilization
   

• Hospital stay: Typically 2–3 days, depending on complexity.
   
• Early mobility: Walking begins within 24 hours with assistance.
   
• Neck brace: Often required for support during the initial healing phase.
   
• Return to light activity: Most patients return to desk work or light tasks within 4–6 weeks.
   
• Physical therapy: Begins after initial healing to restore strength and range of motion.
   
• Full fusion timeline: Bone fusion typically develops over 6 months.
   
• Full recovery: Most patients return to normal activity levels by 12 months.

• Stop certain medications such as blood thinners, as instructed by Dr. Fried.
   
• Avoid eating or drinking for a set period before surgery.
   
• Arrange transportation home and support for the early recovery period.
   
• Prepare a comfortable recovery area with essentials within easy reach.
   
• Quit smoking, as nicotine slows bone healing and fusion success.

Contact Dr. Fried’s office immediately if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or redness around the incision
   
• New or worsening weakness, numbness, or balance problems
   
• Severe neck pain not relieved by medication
   
• Sudden bladder or bowel control changes (medical emergency)