The Spine Journal
Volume 6, Issue 6, Supplement , Pages S207-S211, November 2006

Anesthetic considerations in the treatment of cervical myelopathy

  • K. Anthony Kim, MD
    • ,
  • Michael Y. Wang, MD

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck-University of Southern California School of Medicine, 1200 N. State Street, Suite 5046, Los Angeles, CA 90033. Tel.: (323) 226-7432; fax: (323) 226-7833.

Department of Neurological Surgery, Keck-University of Southern California School of Medicine, 1200 N. State Street, Suite 5046, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA

Abstract 

Background context

The safe surgical treatment of patients with severe cervical spondylotic myelopathy involves a team approach incorporating special anesthetic considerations. This patient population is more vulnerable to perioperative complications. Advanced age, prolonged periods of immobility, multiple medical co-morbidities, and the risk of worsening neurologic injury mandate that the anesthesiologist pay special attention in the preoperative, induction, surgical, and recovery phases.

Purpose

To review the literature regarding the anesthetic management of patients undergoing surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Conclusion

A basic understanding of the pathophysiology of cervical myelopathy as well as the nuances of the surgical treatment plan can help to ensure safe and effective patient management.

Keywords: Cervical, Spondylotic, Myelopathy, Anesthetic

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 FDA device/drug status: not applicable.Nothing of value received from a commercial entity related to this manuscript.

PII: S1529-9430(06)00196-3

doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2006.04.007

The Spine Journal
Volume 6, Issue 6, Supplement , Pages S207-S211, November 2006

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