Complications in cervical spine surgeries

Complications in cervical spine surgeries can occur infrequently; however, these adverse events can be catastrophic. Each approach to the cervical spine has its own unique set of complications that can occur. Pre-operative planning, vigilance intraoperatively, and careful postoperative care can help avoid complications and allow early detection of adverse events that can prevent long-term sequelae. Both anterior and posterior surgical approaches consistently offer great results, each approach can be technically demanding, and surgeons should be familiar with the appropriate techniques and possible complications.