TREATMENT
The two main approaches to surgical decompression of cervical stenosis are anterior (from the front) and posterior (from the back). The anterior approach is suited for problems involving discs and bone spurs (which are located in front of the spinal cord and are therefore unapproachable from the back). The surgeon ultimately decides how many levels will be treated upon surgery. Anterior surgery will almost always involve fusion with bone, and in most cases, metal plates and screws will be used.
When there is an overall stenosis of the cervical spinal canal, or if three or more levels of the spine are involved, the posterior approach will be considered. When evidence of spinal cord injury or atrophy is displayed, the surgical outcome may not be as effective as when these problems are absent. This, however, does not mean that surgery should be avoided, as surgery may significantly help in diminishing the severity of the condition.