Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Bone Fusion and Plate
History

Mr. Robert Bear* is a 41 year old engineer who enjoyed good health until August 25, 2002.  While swinging a golf club, he noticed immediate acute left shoulder pain.  “I didn’t think much of it until after the round, when the pain worsened and traveled to my neck and left arm,” said Mr. Bear, “ I knew something was definitely wrong after I began to have trouble sleeping because of my severe neck pain.” These symptoms persisted and he was evaluated by his PCP and was started on PT for two weeks.  “I began to notice my left upper arm was getting smaller and I was getting weaker in my left tricep,” said Mr. Bear. He then underwent a MRI demonstrating a large herniated cervical disc on the left C6-7 nerve root. (See side X-ray)

He was then evaluated by Dr. Maroon and found to indeed have left tricep muscle weakness and abnormal reflexes in the left arm.  Following a discussion of the risks and benefits of surgery he agreed to have an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with bone graft on 10/10/02. “I knew I couldn’t wait any longer, even my co-workers noticed that my left arm was getting small from the muscle atrophy,” stated Mr. Bear, “and my left forearm and first finger and thumb were completely numb.” “It was hard to believe that a herniated disc in my neck was the cause of my severe left arm pain and numbness,” said Mr. Bear.

Surgery and Hospitalization

Mr. Bear underwent the operation without complication and was discharged the day after surgery. “I was immediately better when I woke up in the recovery room.  The worst part of the surgery was a sore throat that only lasted a few days,” stated Mr. Bear.  “I still occasionally have some slight numbness in the tip of my left index finger but my strength is continuing to improve and I am able to do most activities.” “Overall I am very satisfied and glad I didn’t wait any longer,” said Mr. Bear.

*Mr. Bear has signed a released to permit the release of this personal information.  We will not disclose any information unless the parties involved agree in writing.  Mr. Bear chose to permit this information because of his gratitude to Dr. Maroon and his staff.