Iatrogenic Cervical Deformity

Iatrogenic deformities of the cervical spine are not uncommon and may be associated with either anterior or posterior operations. To minimize the “footprints” left behind from surgical interventions on the cervical spine, it is imperative not only to treat the present disorder but also avoid sowing the seeds of future problems, or at least create a milieu in which they can be easily addressed should they occur. Doing so requires attention to either correcting or preventing cervical deformities whenever possible during the index operation because the optimal method of treating iatrogenic cervical deformity remains its prevention. In treating established deformities, surgical decision making hinges on whether the deformity is rigid, flexible, or fused.