Occipitocervical Fusion Surgery in Indore
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about occipitocervical fusion
Occipitocervical fusion is a specialized surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the junction between the occipital bone at the base of the skull and the upper cervical spine. Dr. Ameya Rangnekar is proficient in performing this complex surgery, which is often necessary for patients with severe instability or deformity at this critical junction. Conditions such as occipitocervical instability, rheumatoid arthritis, tumors, or traumatic injuries can necessitate this surgery to alleviate symptoms, prevent further neurological damage, and restore stability.
Benefits of Occipitocervical Fusion:
- Stabilizes the Spine: Provides robust stability to the junction between the skull and cervical spine, preventing abnormal movements.
- Reduces Pain: Alleviates severe neck pain and associated symptoms by stabilizing the affected area.
- Protects the Spinal Cord: Prevents further compression or damage to the spinal cord, reducing the risk of neurological deficits.
- Improves Quality of Life: Enhances overall functionality and quality of life by addressing the root cause of symptoms and restoring stability.
- Facilitates Recovery: Encourages proper healing and recovery, allowing patients to resume daily activities with less discomfort.
Symptoms Addressed:
Severe Neck Pain: Persistent, debilitating pain at the base of the skull and upper neck.
- Neurological Deficits: Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs due to spinal cord compression.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the head and neck, often accompanied by stiffness.
- Headaches: Chronic headaches originating from the neck and radiating towards the head.
- Postural Instability: Difficulty maintaining balance or an upright posture due to instability at the occipitocervical junction.
Treatment Approach:
Dr. Rangnekar utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to occipitocervical fusion, including:
- Preoperative Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment through imaging studies (MRI, CT scans) and physical examinations to plan the surgical approach.
- Surgical Technique: Precise alignment and stabilization of the occipital bone and cervical spine using screws, rods, and bone grafts to achieve fusion.
- Postoperative Care: Personalized rehabilitation plans involving physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and overall function.
Conditions Treated with Occipitocervical Fusion:
- Occipitocervical Instability
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Traumatic Injuries
- Tumors affecting the cervical spine
- Congenital Abnormalities
f&q
Occipitocervical fusion is a surgical procedure that stabilizes the connection between the occipital bone and the upper cervical vertebrae to treat instability and prevent further neurological damage.
This surgery is often required for conditions like severe occipitocervical instability, rheumatoid arthritis, traumatic injuries, or tumors that compromise the stability of the upper cervical spine.
The procedure involves the use of screws and rods to secure the occipital bone to the upper cervical vertebrae, often with bone grafts to facilitate fusion and ensure long-term stability.
Recovery involves a period of immobilization followed by gradual physical therapy. Patients typically need several months to regain full strength and function, with personalized guidance from Dr. Rangnekar throughout the recovery period.