Cervical Myelopathy
Expert Care by Dr. Nitish Agrawal – Best Spine Surgeon in Pune
Cervical Myelopathy is a serious spinal condition in which the spinal cord in the neck (cervical spine) becomes compressed. This compression is most commonly caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as cervical disc prolapse, spinal canal stenosis, bone spur formation, or thickening of spinal ligaments. When the spinal cord is compressed, normal nerve signal transmission is affected, leading to problems with movement, coordination, and sensation.
Dr. Nitish Agrawal, a leading spine specialist in Pune, provides advanced and evidence-based treatment for cervical myelopathy with a focus on early intervention and long-term functional recovery.
Causes of Cervical Myelopathy
- Cervical disc prolapse (slip disc in the neck)
- Cervical spinal canal stenosis
- Age-related degeneration of the cervical spine
- Bone spurs (osteophytes)
- Thickened spinal ligaments
- Cervical spine injury, infection, or rarely tumors
Symptoms of Cervical Myelopathy
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands and arms
- Difficulty with fine motor skills (writing, buttoning clothes)
- Problems with balance or walking
- Weakness or stiffness in the legs
- In advanced cases, loss of bladder or bowel control
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Dr. Nitish Agrawal uses:
- MRI of the cervical spine (gold standard investigation)
- X-rays and CT scans to assess spinal alignment and bony compression
- Detailed neurological examination
Treatment of Cervical Myelopathy
Treatment depends on the severity of spinal cord compression and symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment (Early or Mild Cases)
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Supervised physiotherapy
- Short-term use of a cervical collar
Note: Cervical myelopathy is often a progressive condition, and non-surgical treatment may not be sufficient in moderate to severe cases.
Surgical Treatment (Moderate to Severe Cases)
Dr. Nitish Agrawal specializes in advanced cervical spine surgeries, including:
- Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)
- Cervical decompression surgery
- Spinal stabilization using titanium plates, screws, and spacers
Goals of surgery include:
- Relieving pressure on the spinal cord
- Preventing further neurological damage
- Improving strength, balance, and hand function
Why Early Treatment Is Important
If left untreated, cervical myelopathy can lead to:
- Permanent nerve damage
- Progressive walking difficulty
- Increased risk of paralysis
Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention significantly improve outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Nitish Agrawal?
- Recognized as one of the best spine surgeons in Pune
- Extensive experience in treating complex cervical spine disorders
- Expertise in minimally invasive and advanced spine surgery
- Patient-focused, ethical, and outcome-driven care
