Cervical Spine Surgery
A spine surgeon is teaching registrars about anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). The discussion focuses on the Smith-Robinson approach, structures at risk, and perioperative complications. The surgeon notes that approach side selection is important for nerve protection and that dysphagia is the most commonly reported complication. Regarding ACDF and the anterior cervical approach:
Mark each as TRUE or FALSE
The left-sided approach is preferred because the recurrent laryngeal nerve loops around the aortic a...
The Smith-Robinson approach retracts the carotid sheath laterally and the trachea/esophagus medially...
Dysphagia is rare after ACDF affecting only 5% of patients; myelopathy should always receive a trial...
Dysphagia is the most common complication with transient rates of 30-50% and persistent rates of 2-5...
The C5-6 disc compresses the C6 nerve root as cervical nerve roots exit above the pedicle of the sam...
Answer the questions to see explanations
Click T (True) or F (False) for each option