26-11. Posterior Cervical Decompression

What surgical procedures can be performed using the posterior cervical approach?
a) Laminectomy for decompression, intradural tumor removal, cordotomy, discectomy, disc replacement, and fusion
b) Only anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
c) Thoracic spine surgeries exclusively
d) Lumbar spinal fusion only

a) Laminectomy for decompression, intradural tumor removal, cordotomy, discectomy, disc replacement, and fusion

Which approach is used for posterior cervical decompression?
a) Anterior cervical approach
b) Posterior cervical approach
c) Transsphenoidal approach
d) Lateral thoracic approach

b) Posterior cervical approac

Where is the initial incision made in a posterior cervical decompression?
a) Over the anterior cervical vertebrae
b) Over the cervical spinous process in the midline
c) On the lateral neck
d) Below the clavicle
= b) Over the cervical spinous process in the midline

Which instruments are used to perform the laminectomy in this procedure?
a) Scalpel and scissors
b) Drill, Leksell and Kerrison rongeurs, and curettes
c) Electrocautery and clamps
d) Needle and syringe
= b) Drill, Leksell and Kerrison rongeurs, and curettes

!What should be done if fusion is required during the posterior cervical decompression?
a) Skip fusion altogether
b) Follow the steps described for fusion in the anterior cervical procedure
c) Use external fixation only
d) Use only bone graft without fixation
= b) Follow the steps described for fusion in the anterior cervical procedure