[aprokop]

#32395

Dr. Corenman,

What can you tell me about a Posterior foraminotomy? I watched your video online. I still have a few questions. I have had two surgeons recommend this surgery to take off the pressure from the C4 nerve root. I have severe stenosis at the C3/C4. The pain is on the right side. Most of my pain is in the shoulder and neck area. I also have right side head aches and right side ear and jaw pain. I had an injection into the C4 nerve root and it did seem to help with the pain.
• How long the typical is recover?
• Is using the posterior approach more painful than the anterior approach?
• Have your patients been happy with the results?
• When can I go back to being a teacher and a coach?
• Do you like this surgery?
Thanks,
Andy

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#32399

Recovery for posterior foraminotomy is about 6 weeks. This is for muscle recovery and functional stress capacity.

A posterior approach is more uncomfortable initially but has a faster recovery than an anterior approach (ACDF). Patients can be happy with a foraminotomy but it depends upon the disorder that causes compression. If the compression is from the front (uncovertebral joint hypertrophy), it is generally better to go from the front. If the compression is from the rear, a foraminotomy is generally better unless there also is a slip (degenerative spondylolithesis) in which case a posterior foraminotomy os contraindicated.

You can go back to teach in 4 weeks and coach in 6-8 weeks.

The surgery is good for certain conditions, is adequate for others and contraindicated (as above) for even others.

Dr. Corenman

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