Diagnosis
A diagnosis involves a doctor feeling around the spinal column for tenderness. Afterwards, the patient is required to perform some exercises. This is done in an effort to determine what is causing neck pain.
Afterwards, one of these advanced imaging techniques will be recommended:
Myelogram - this imaging technique involves injecting fluid into the spinal column. When an X-ray is taken, it reveals any areas of compression.
MRI Scan - this type of imaging helps to reveal the exact location of the herniated disk(s).
CT Scan - it takes multiple x-rays of the spine and helps to create a clear image of the spinal column.
X-ray - this type of imaging cannot reveal a herniated disk. However, it assists to rule out other causes of neck pain such a bone tumors.
How it is Done
The doctor makes an incision through the front of the neck. He/she then proceeds to expose the herniated disk and slice it out. In most cases, all the material that makes up the disk is pulled out. He/she will then proceed to enlarge the channels through which the nerves leave the vertebrae. This will ensure that future problems with nerve compression do not occur.
The cavity created is usually sealed with a bone graft. This ensures that the vertebrae do not fuse irregularly. In addition, the doctor may use titanium pins to stabilize the spine. The titanium plate is put in place to stabilize the healing process.