What Is a Cervical Foraminotomy?
A cervical foraminotomy is a procedure that decompresses a nerve in the neck. A spine surgeon removes bone or disc pieces that are pressing on the nerves that go from your neck to your arm. The surgery goal is to relieve some causes of neck and arm pain.
An endoscopic cervical foraminotomy uses a much smaller incision (cut) than open surgical techniques. Our Endoscopic Spine & Percutaneous Spine Program surgeons use these ultra-minimally invasive approaches. The techniques often offer a lower risk of complications, faster recovery, and less pain.
Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy vs. Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
A posterior cervical foraminotomy and ACDF both treat herniated discs in the neck. Discs are the cushioning between each of your spinal bones. These discs contain a jelly-like center. A herniated disc is when the jelly-like center pushes through its tough outer shell. Herniated discs can press on nearby nerves, frequently causing neck and arm pain as well as arm weakness or numbness.
The two procedures have key differences:
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ACDF surgery—During this type of spinal fusion, a spine surgeon removes the problematic bone or disc pieces. Then they join (fuse) your spinal bones where the herniated disc was. They make an incision on the front of your neck during the anterior approach.
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Posterior cervical foraminotomy—Your spine surgeon removes the bone or disc pieces. They don’t join the spinal bones. They make an incision on the back of your neck during the posterior approach.
A posterior cervical foraminotomy helps keep more range of motion in your neck. Spinal fusions can increase the risk that other spinal bones will break down and need surgery later. However, posterior cervical foraminotomy is a more focused procedure that treats a more limited range of problems.
Candidate Criteria for Cervical Foraminotomy
Ideal candidates for a cervical foraminotomy are often younger patients with a herniated disc affecting only one side of their neck. A cervical foraminotomy isn’t right for everyone. But it can bring excellent results for the right patients.
Find A Cervical Foraminotomy Surgeon
What to Expect During an Endoscopic Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy
Because this is a precise surgery around delicate anatomy like the spinal cord and nerves, you get general anesthesia to remain asleep during the procedure. Then we follow several steps:
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Use X-rays to confirm exactly where the herniated disc is
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Make a small incision about 7 millimeters wide—the width of the average pinky nail
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Use long instruments with a light and endoscope (camera) to view your spine
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Use constant irrigation to bathe the muscles and minimize bleeding without air entering your body
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Remove the herniated disc or bone compressing the nerve
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Close the incision with absorbable stitches
The procedure usually lasts around 60–90 minutes. You go home the same day.
Cervical Foraminotomy Recovery
You can return to your pre-surgery activity levels the next day. However, you’ll need to avoid activities that stress the neck for several weeks. You can expect your neck to be sore. This surgery is so delicate that it doesn’t require powerful painkillers. Most people can manage the pain with over-the-counter medications.
You’ll see your spine surgeon for two follow-up appointments:
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Six weeks after surgery to check on your healing
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Six months after surgery to check you for any lingering pain
Cervical Foraminotomy Complications & Risks
Your spine surgeon will discuss the potential complications and risks before the procedure. We have demonstrated in peer-reviewed publications that the endoscopic techniques we use lead to a lower risk of complications. Our surgeons lead the field in trying to reduce risks.
Cervical Foraminotomy Success Rate
Cervical foraminotomies are highly successful when performed for the right reasons. Up to 90% of our cervical foraminotomy patients experience dramatic symptom improvement. Our surgeons can provide a more specific estimated success rate for you, based on your condition.
Why Choose ÑÇÖÞ×ÔοÊÓƵ of Utah ÑÇÖÞ×ÔοÊÓƵ?
Posterior cervical foraminotomies are complex procedures that need a high level of expertise. At ÑÇÖÞ×ÔοÊÓƵ of Utah ÑÇÖÞ×ÔοÊÓƵ, your care is in the hands of Utah’s leading experts in posterior cervical foraminotomies. We teach and train other surgeons, nationally and internationally, to perform the endoscopic technique. Our experienced, dedicated team offers a full range of spine surgeries. We focus on bringing you the best outcome possible.
Our surgeons have used posterior cervical foraminotomy to treat complex problems such as headaches, nerve narrowing, or disc replacement complications.
Make an Appointment
You need a referral from your primary care or other provider to make an appointment.
Call 801-587-2225 or request an evaluation for open cervical foraminotomies.
For endoscopic cervical foraminotomies, call 801-587-7109 or .
