Back Surgery in Fairbanks

Cervical Spine Procedures

Expert Surgical Solutions for Neck and Upper Spine Conditions

At Spine Care Specialists of Alaska, we understand that neck and cervical spine issues can significantly affect your quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing chronic pain, numbness, weakness, or mobility limitations, our board-certified neurosurgeon, Dr. John Lopez, provides advanced surgical options tailored to your condition and lifestyle.

We use state-of-the-art techniques — including BrainLab-guided navigation and minimally invasive approaches — to ensure precision, safety, and faster recovery.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

ACDF is one of the most common procedures for cervical disc problems. Through a small incision at the front of the neck, Dr. Lopez removes the damaged disc, relieves pressure on the nerves, and stabilizes the spine by fusing the vertebrae.

Benefits:

  • Pain relief from nerve compression

  • Restored neck stability

  • High success rate with lasting results

Posterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

This approach is often recommended when multiple levels of the cervical spine need attention or when access from the back of the neck is optimal. It involves removing problematic disc material and stabilizing the spine with a fusion to prevent further nerve compression.

Benefits:

  • Effective for complex or multi-level conditions

  • Enhanced decompression for nerve relief

  • Durable spinal stabilization

Cervical Laminectomy

A cervical laminectomy involves removing a portion of the vertebra (the lamina) to create more space in the spinal canal. This is commonly used to relieve pressure from conditions such as spinal stenosis or myelopathy.

Benefits:

  • Relieves pressure on the spinal cord

  • Improves mobility and reduces pain

  • Can be combined with fusion for added stability

Cervical Microdiscectomy

A minimally invasive procedure designed to remove small fragments of herniated disc material that are pressing on spinal nerves. Using advanced visualization tools, Dr. Lopez performs this surgery through a small incision for a faster recovery.

Benefits:

  • Minimally invasive with smaller incision

  • Faster recovery and less post-op discomfort

  • Effective relief from arm and neck pain

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Cervical spine procedures are surgeries designed to treat conditions affecting the neck portion of the spine, also called the cervical spine. These procedures address problems like herniated discs, nerve compression, spinal stenosis, and instability, helping to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further damage.

  • Surgery is typically recommended if non-surgical treatments — like physical therapy, medications, or injections — haven’t provided relief. Signs you may need surgery include:

    • Persistent neck pain that affects your daily life

    • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands

    • Difficulty turning your neck or maintaining posture

    • Loss of balance or coordination

  • At Spine Care Specialists of Alaska, Dr. John Lopez provides advanced procedures, including:

    • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) – Removes a damaged disc and fuses vertebrae for stability.

    • Posterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion – Provides decompression and fusion from the back of the neck.

    • Cervical Laminectomy – Removes part of the vertebra (lamina) to relieve nerve or spinal cord pressure.

    • Cervical Microdiscectomy – Minimally invasive procedure to remove small disc fragments pressing on nerves.

  • Recovery times vary based on the procedure and the individual patient, but most people can return to light activity within a few weeks. Dr. Lopez and his team will provide a personalized recovery plan, which may include physical therapy, pain management strategies, and regular follow-up visits to monitor your healing.

  • Yes, whenever possible. Many cervical procedures, such as microdiscectomy and ACDF, can be performed using minimally invasive techniques. This reduces recovery time, minimizes scarring, and lowers the risk of complications.

  • We use BrainLab image-guided navigation for enhanced precision and safety during surgery. This state-of-the-art technology ensures optimal results while reducing the risk of complications.

  • You can schedule a consultation by calling our office at (907) 456-3876 or visiting spinecareak.com. Our team will review your symptoms, imaging, and history to create a personalized treatment plan.

Neurosurgery

BrainLab Surgical Suite

BrainLab Curve, Cirq, X-Loop, and Virtual Sight: Advanced robotic and imaging technology for precise surgical planning and execution, enhancing surgical outcomes and patient recovery.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

Robotic Assistance: Utilizing robotic technology to perform complex spinal surgeries with increased accuracy and reduced recovery times.

Minimally Invasive Techniques: Focused on reducing patient recovery times and improving surgical outcomes with the latest in minimally invasive surgical technology.

Virtual Planning for Precision

3D Virtual Planning: Dr. Lopez uses 3D imaging to plan surgeries, guiding patients through the process and ensuring the highest precision during operations.