Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

I am 2 1/2 weeks post op  and I am having pain that starts in my neck and radiates up to the top of my head and eyes and in the middle of the night I am waking up with painful  numbness in both hands is this normal and what should I do?

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

Postoperatively after a cervical laminectomy, there can be a significant inflammatory response that can affect the nerves that come off the spinal cord at this level. These nerves supply the shoulder, arm, forearm and hand. If affected, there can be weakness and numbness.

I would recommend that you follow up with your primary surgeon to discuss your pain and also discuss management options.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.