Tag: Cervical spine

The cruciform ligament, a vital cross-shaped structure deep within the neck, is also known by another name: the cruciate ligament of the atlas. This crucial ligament plays a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and controlled movement of the upper cervical spine, protecting the delicate spinal cord from injury. Its components, function, and clinical importance are key to understanding neck stability and general health.

According to a 2018 study, over one million anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures were performed in the US between 2006 and 2013, solidifying its place as one of the most common neck surgeries. This article explores the most frequently performed surgical options for addressing issues in the cervical spine.

Studies show high success rates, often over 85%, for specific cervical spine procedures like Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) aimed at relieving nerve pressure. This positive outlook leads many to question: **Are neck surgeries usually successful?** The answer is typically yes for the right conditions, but depends heavily on several factors including the specific procedure, the patient's overall health, and the underlying issue.

While the prospect of any surgery is concerning, a 2019 study published in the *Global Spine Journal* found zero intraoperative deaths in a large review of elective cervical fusions, indicating high safety for many procedures. Understanding **how risky are neck surgeries** involves exploring different procedure types, potential complications, and patient-specific factors.

The alar ligaments are two strong, rounded cords found at the base of the skull, which is why when answering the question, "What is the alar ligament also known as?", anatomists often refer to it as the "check ligament of the odontoid". This crucial pair of ligaments helps stabilize the upper neck and limit excessive head rotation.

According to research, many people will experience some form of joint crepitus at some point in their lives. The sensation that prompts the question, "Why does my neck have air bubbles?" is most often a manifestation of this very common and usually harmless phenomenon.

While the surgery itself for a procedure like an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) can take between 1 and 4 hours, the total time commitment, including pre-operative preparation and full recovery, is significantly longer. Several factors, such as the complexity of the condition and the type of procedure, can influence the overall timeline, making a clear understanding essential for patients.

Over half of all women will experience cervicitis, an inflammation of the cervix, at some point in their lives. This highlights the importance of understanding **what the root word cervic mean**s in different medical contexts, as its usage varies significantly depending on the specific anatomical location.

The human cervical spine, or neck, is naturally designed with a gentle, inward-facing C-shaped curve called lordosis, which is vital for absorbing shock and supporting the head's weight. While people often consider aesthetic ideals, the real answer to "What is the best neck shape?" is a functional one, focusing on a strong, properly aligned cervical curve to prevent pain and injury.

According to a 2016 study, spine pain is the most common cause of disability for people between the ages of 25-64. A significant contributor to this issue is the cervical zygapophysis, which plays a crucial role in the movement and stability of the neck.