Perioperative and Approach-Related Complications Associated with Anterior Cervical Surgery

The anterior approach to the cervical spine follows a well-defined fascial plane to the vertebral bodies and discs and allows for good decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Interbody fusion and anterior instrumentation can be carried out with little added morbidity. Patients can anticipate good outcomes, and the risk of complications is small in the hands of an experienced surgeon. This article reviews the published data on complications of the anterior approach to the cervical spine, focusing on etiology, diagnosis, and management of these complications. Raising the surgeons' awareness on complications that are possible during the procedure is essential in minimizing the incidence of adverse events, and allows for early detection and appropriate management of complications when they do occur.