Book Appointment
  • TREATMENTS

Neck Nerve Decompression (Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy)

A motion-preserving surgical option for cervical nerve compression
A photo of Dr Colum Nolan, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon of Oxford Spine & Neurosurgery Centre

Dr Colum Nolan
Senior Consultant Spine & Neurosurgeon
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)

Neck nerve decompression, also known as posterior cervical foraminotomy, is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on a cervical nerve root. It is performed from the back of the neck and focuses on creating more space for the affected nerve without removing the disc or fusing the spine.

This procedure may be considered for selected patients with nerve-related arm pain or neurological symptoms that have not improved with non-surgical treatment.

Understanding Cervical Nerve Compression

Cervical nerve compression</a > occurs when a nerve exiting the spine becomes irritated or compressed, often due to disc bulging, bone spurs, or degenerative changes around the nerve opening (foramen).

 

Symptoms may include:

  • Neck pain with pain radiating into the shoulder or arm
  • Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
  • Weakness in the upper limb
  • Symptoms affecting one side more than the other

When symptoms correlate with imaging findings and persist despite conservative care, surgical decompression may be discussed.

Contact us today

When Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy May Be Considered

Posterior cervical foraminotomy may be considered when:
  • Nerve compression affects a specific cervical nerve root
  • Symptoms are predominantly arm-related rather than spinal cord-related
  • Cervical spine stability is preserved
  • Motion preservation is desirable
  • Non-surgical treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, or injections have not provided sufficient relief
This procedure is not suitable for all cervical spine conditions and is recommended only after careful assessment.

How Is Neck Nerve Decompression Performed?

Posterior cervical foraminotomy is performed under general anaesthesia through a small incision at the back of the neck.
During the procedure:
  • Soft tissue and bone contributing to nerve compression are carefully removed
  • The affected nerve root is decompressed
  • The disc is usually left in place, and spinal fusion is not routinely required
The goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve while maintaining natural movement of the cervical spine.

Recovery After Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy

Recovery following neck nerve decompression varies between individuals.
In general:
  • Hospital stay is usually short
  • Gentle neck movement is encouraged after surgery
  • Return to daily activities is gradual
  • Physiotherapy may be recommended to support recovery
Because the spine is not fused, recovery may focus on restoring comfort and function while maintaining mobility.

Neck Nerve Decompression vs Other Cervical Spine Surgeries

Cervical spine surgery can involve different approaches depending on the condition being treated. The choice of procedure is based on symptoms, imaging findings, and spinal stability.

How This Procedure Fits Into the Care Pathway

Neck nerve decompression is part of a stepwise cervical spine care pathway. Before surgery is considered, patients are usually assessed for:

  • Medication and activity modification
  • Physiotherapy or rehabilitation
  • Pain management treatments, such as injections

Surgery is discussed when symptoms persist or neurological function is affected.

Make An Appointment

Care at Oxford Spine and Neurosurgery Centre

Neck nerve decompression procedures at Oxford Spine and Neurosurgery Centre are planned based on detailed clinical assessment and imaging correlation.

Care is led by Dr Colum Nolan, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with more than 20 years of clinical experience, with emphasis on appropriate patient selection, motion preservation where suitable, and structured follow up.

In summary

Posterior cervical foraminotomy is a surgical option used to relieve cervical nerve root compression while preserving spinal movement. It may be appropriate for selected patients with arm dominant symptoms and stable cervical spine anatomy, forming part of a comprehensive approach to cervical spine care.

Medical Disclaimer
This page is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Information provided is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Suitability for posterior cervical foraminotomy must be determined by a qualified medical practitioner following appropriate clinical assessment.

Our Spine & Neurosurgeon in Singapore
Dr Colum Nolan
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)

Dr Colum Nolan is a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience, specialising in minimally invasive spine (keyhole) surgery and other spine procedures. 

A graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dr Nolan underwent neurosurgical training in Ireland and Australia, followed by a fellowship in complex spine surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, as well as rotations at the Orthopaedic Spine Unit in Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. 

Dr Colum is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centred care, combining surgical precision with a genuine dedication to improving his patients’ quality of life.

Get in touch

Make an Enquiry or Request an Appointment

Our friendly team is here to serve you. For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.

WhatsApp