Minimally Invasive Foraminotomy Surgeon
Chronic neck pain and a pinched nerve can put a damper on your daily life. If you’re tired of dealing with constant discomfort and limited mobility, a minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy might be the solution you need. Dr. Samuel and his team specialize in this procedure, which can relieve pressure on the nerves and get you back to feeling your best. Don’t let pain control your life. Contact Dr. Samuel’s team today!
What is a foraminotomy?
A cervical foraminotomy is a surgical procedure to relieve pain caused by a pinched nerve in the neck (cervical spine). This condition occurs when the neural foramen, an opening through which nerve roots exit the spine – becomes narrow or obstructed. When these nerve roots are compressed, it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness.
Thanks to advances in surgery, this procedure is now performed using minimally invasive techniques through the back of the neck. This approach leads to smaller incisions, reduced tissue damage, and a quicker recovery. Doctor Andre M. Samuel, orthopedic spine surgeon, treats patients in the Clear Lake, Houston, Sugar Land, TX area who may need a minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy.
Why would I need a foraminotomy?
If you’re struggling with chronic neck pain that hasn’t responded to physical therapy, medications, or injections, you might be a candidate for cervical foraminotomy. This procedure can also be beneficial if you’re experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from your neck into your shoulders, arms, or hands. Conditions like herniated discs, bone spurs, and spinal stenosis often cause these symptoms. Dr. Samuel will discuss the best surgical options with you, but ultimately, the decision to undergo a minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy is yours.
How is Minimally Invasive Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy performed?
Here’s what to expect during a minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy:
First, the patient is placed under general anesthesia while lying face-down on the table. Dr. Samuel starts by making a small incision at the back of the neck and uses special instruments to separate the muscles. A tubular retractor is then used to create a clear path to your spine. With the help of a surgical microscope, or magnifying Loupes, Dr. Samuel will remove a a tiny amount of bone to uncover the compressed the nerve root. If a herniated disc is causing the problem, it’s carefully lifted, and the disc material is removed to ease the pressure on the nerve. At this point, the neural foramen, the opening where the nerve roots exit the spine, is widened ensuring the nerve is no longer pinched. Once everything is done, the muscles are placed back in their natural position, and the incision is closed.
How long does it take to recover from minimally invasive posterior cervical foraminotomy?
Recovering from a foraminotomy usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks, but varies from patient to patient. Following surgery, you’ll spend a few hours in the recovery room and most patients can go home the same day.
In the first few days, you’ll likely have some pain at the incision site, which can be managed with pain medicine. You should rest and avoid heavy activities, but you can start gentle movements and walking is encouraged. Around 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, many people begin physical therapy and can return to light work duties, but heavy lifting is still off-limits. By 4 to 6 weeks, most people feel better and return to normal activities, including moderate exercise. Following Dr. Samuel’s post-surgical instructions is recommended for the best surgical outcome from a foraminotomy,