Protruding disc at C-6 and C-7

          The result of my protruding disc has caused constant pain radiating from my neck down through my left shoulder and arm, down to my wrist. I further have numbness and tingliness in my first three fingers. Surgery is definite. What types of surgery are my options? Typically, how long will a person who has this type of surgery be off of work? How long is the average hospital stay? What is the success rate?
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Dear Lisha,
When surgery is done for a herniated cervical disc, the most common procedure is an anterior cervical discectomy with fusion.  The approach is through the neck.  Once the cervical spine is exposed, the disc is removed and a bone dowel is placed in the space to create a fusion.  Typically, a patient will be in the hospital for a day or two and will then be sent home in a cervical collar for six weeks.  At that point plain x-rays of the cervical spine will be done to evaluate the fusion and the collar is often removed.  A patient is instructed to do no lifting and no more than a brisk walk is allowed.  The length of time off work depends on a patient's occupation and should be negotiated with the surgeon.
Most spine surgeons should have a success rate of over 90% of patients achieving fusion with a one level discectomy and fusion.  Patients with similar histories as yours typically find relief from pain in the recovery room.  Weakness and numbness/tingling take weeks to months, respectively, to improve.  Numbness may not improve at all.
Speak to your surgeon in this regard to be sure you are clear on the issues before undergoing surgery.
Good luck.