Neck Issues After Disc Surgery: Pain and Nerve Block Treatment

Q: Neck Issues After Disc Surgery: Pain and Nerve Block Treatment

Hello： You asked three times, so I will respond all at once. <br>1. <br>You can copy the pre-operative and post-operative X-rays and MRIs and place them here (if you have no privacy concerns) or bring them for discussion during the outpatient visit. <br>2. <br>Of course, a referr

Neck issues

Hello Dr.
Lai: I was in a car accident in mid-May, and after the accident, I underwent artificial disc replacement surgery at the C4-C5 levels.
Post-surgery, I have experienced soreness in my neck that radiates to the middle and ring fingers of my left hand, accompanied by numbness and weakness.
Later, on September 5th, I received nerve block treatment at the C3 and C7 levels, which alleviated the pain in my middle finger, but the pain in my ring finger persists.
May I send you the pre-operative MRI videos and post-operative X-rays for your review?

A J, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/06

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: You asked three times, so I will respond all at once.
1.
You can copy the pre-operative and post-operative X-rays and MRIs and place them here (if you have no privacy concerns) or bring them for discussion during the outpatient visit.
2.
Of course, a referral is possible, but it may not necessarily be an issue with the original surgeon's procedure.
However, it is still important to have the aforementioned images, and it is best for the patient to be seen in person for a proper neurological assessment by the physician to provide an accurate response.
Best wishes.
// Dr.
Lai Chao-Kang, Director of Spine and Neurosurgery, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2017/09/06

More Info

After undergoing cervical disc surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience persistent pain and neurological symptoms, such as numbness and weakness in the arms or fingers. In your case, following the artificial disc replacement surgery at the C4-C5 level, you have reported ongoing discomfort that radiates down to your left hand, specifically affecting the middle and ring fingers. This situation can be quite distressing, especially when the pain persists despite interventions like nerve blocks.

The symptoms you describe, including pain, numbness, and weakness, can be attributed to several factors. First, it is essential to understand that surgery on the cervical spine can lead to inflammation and irritation of the surrounding tissues, including nerves. This inflammation can cause symptoms similar to those experienced before surgery, particularly if there was pre-existing nerve compression due to a herniated disc or other spinal issues.

The fact that you have undergone a nerve block treatment at the C7 and C3 levels indicates that your medical team is actively addressing the pain and discomfort. Nerve blocks can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation and interrupting pain signals sent to the brain. However, it is not uncommon for patients to experience varying degrees of relief in different areas. In your case, while the pain in your middle finger has subsided, the persistent pain in your ring finger suggests that there may still be some underlying nerve irritation or compression that needs to be addressed.

It is also worth noting that the recovery process after cervical spine surgery can be prolonged. Nerves can take time to heal, and it is not unusual for symptoms to fluctuate during this period. Factors such as physical therapy, activity level, and overall health can influence recovery. If the pain in your ring finger continues, it may be beneficial to explore additional diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or further X-rays, to assess the surgical site and surrounding structures for any signs of complications, such as scar tissue formation or residual nerve compression.

Regarding your question about sharing pre-operative MRI and post-operative X-ray images, this can be a valuable tool for your physician to evaluate your condition more thoroughly. Visualizing the anatomical changes before and after surgery can help identify any issues that may be contributing to your ongoing symptoms. It is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider, as they can provide insights based on the images and your clinical presentation.

In terms of treatment options moving forward, if conservative measures such as physical therapy, medication adjustments, and nerve blocks do not yield satisfactory results, further interventions may be considered. These could include additional imaging studies, consultation with a pain management specialist, or even revisiting the surgical site if deemed necessary.
In conclusion, while it is frustrating to deal with ongoing pain after surgery, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare team. They can help tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and concerns. Remember, recovery from cervical spine surgery can be a gradual process, and patience, along with appropriate medical guidance, is key to achieving the best possible outcome.

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