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LILi SpineJoshua Li, MD, PhD

Cervical spine

Posterior cervical fusion

Stabilization from behind when the neck needs a durable posterior construct

Stabilization
Cervical spine anatomy related to Posterior cervical fusion

Posterior cervical fusion is used when the neck must be held still for healing — after trauma, in selected myelopathy patterns, or to back up a long anterior reconstruction.

It is not the default for a herniated disc. Dr. Li uses it when the biomechanics require it, and not as a substitute for a motion-preserving operation that would have been enough.

What to expect

  • A posterior incision and a short hospital stay.
  • A collar is common while the fusion consolidates.

Recovery

  • Therapy starts with walking and posture, then range of the unfused levels.
  • Full fusion is judged on imaging over several months.

From the surgery library

Educational X-Ray Images

Teaching films of posterior fusion. They are not a diagnosis.

Posterior cervical fusion C2–T2Posterior cervical fusion C2–T2Sagittal CT of a C2 dens fractureC2 dens fracture — preoperative sagittal CTSagittal CT after reduction and C1–2 posterior fusionReduction and C1–2 fusion — postoperative sagittal CT
View all 11 educational x-ray images

More cervical spine procedures

Cervical disc replacementAnterior cervical discectomy and fusionLaminoplastyCervical corpectomyPosterior cervical foraminotomy

This page is educational. It is not a recommendation for surgery. Whether a procedure is appropriate is decided after examination, imaging, and a conversation about goals and risk.

FAQ

Questions about posterior fusion

What is posterior cervical fusion?

Screws and rods along the back of the cervical spine lock selected levels while the bone heals, often after decompression or as part of a deformity plan.

Who is posterior fusion for?

Posterior cervical fusion is often considered for: Instability, fracture, or tumor; Kyphosis that cannot be treated from the front alone; Supplementing an anterior reconstruction.

Does posterior cervical fusion preserve motion?

Posterior cervical fusion is a stabilizing operation. Dr. Li recommends it when motion preservation is not the honest solution — for example when the joints are too arthritic or alignment must be changed.

What is recovery like after posterior fusion?

Therapy starts with walking and posture, then range of the unfused levels. Full fusion is judged on imaging over several months.

Appointments

Ready to take the next step toward recovery?

New patients are welcome. Call the spine clinic or send a note — the team will help you find the right visit.

Request an appointmentCall 434.243.3633