Cervical Disc Herniation

A cervical disc herniation occurs when the discs between the cervical vertebrae bulge outward, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It's particularly common in people who work at a desk, have had a neck injury, or maintain poor posture for extended periods.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a cervical disc herniation can vary depending on the location of the pressure on the spinal cord or nerve root. Common symptoms include:

Pain radiating from the neck to the arm
Numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers
Loss of muscle strength (especially in the wrists and fingers)
Limited neck movements
Gait disturbance or urinary control problems due to spinal cord compression (in advanced cases)

Image showing the symptoms of a cervical disc herniation, neck pain, nerve pain radiating to the arm, numbness and muscle weakness

Image representing diagnosis of cervical disc herniation with imaging, MRI, neurological examination and EMG

Diagnostic Methods

Cervical disc herniation is diagnosed through a thorough neurological examination and appropriate imaging techniques. Our goal is to determine not only the cause of the pain but also the severity of the pressure on the nerve tissue and the spinal cord.

Cervical MRI (Magnetic Resonance): The degree of nerve compression and the disc are seen.
CT and direct radiography: Status of bone structures
EMG: Shows nerve conduction disturbance (in appropriate patients)

Who Needs Surgery?

Nonsurgical methods are the first option for most patients. However, surgery is recommended in the following cases:

Severe and persistent arm pain

Severe numbness and loss of strength

Gait disorder due to spinal cord compression

Loss of urinary and fecal control

Persistent complaints despite medication, physical therapy, and injections

Image showing the conditions requiring surgery for cervical disc herniation, severe pain radiating to the arm, muscle weakness and loss of sensation

Visual showing cervical disc herniation surgery methods, microsurgery and modern cervical disc herniation surgery techniques

Surgical Methods

The surgical technique we most frequently use for cervical disc herniation:

Microsurgical Anterior Cervical Discectomy (ACDF):

The hernia is removed through a small incision made in the anterior neck area.
If necessary, the disc space is supported with bone or artificial cage.
The surgery is performed under a microscope, preserving the nerve structures.
Most patients are discharged after 1 day

Post-Operative Process

Return to normal life within 2–4 weeks
Use of a light neck collar (temporary)
Physical therapy and posture training
Ergonomics adjustments are recommended for those who work at a desk for long periods of time.

Visuals showing the recovery process after cervical disc herniation surgery, early mobilization, physical therapy and lifestyle recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can cervical disc herniation be cured without surgery?
Many patients recover with rest, medication, and physical therapy. Follow-up is important.
Is surgery risky?
The complication rate in cervical disc herniation surgeries performed with microsurgery is very low.
Will a plate or screw be placed?
In cases where necessary, disc space can be supported. Immobilization is not necessary for every patient.