Cervical spondylotic myelopathy: make the difficult diagnosis, then refer for surgery

Cleve Clin J Med. 2003 Oct;70(10):899-904. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.70.10.899.

Abstract

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy is the result of narrowing of the cervical spinal canal by degenerative and congenital changes. Prompt surgical treatment is key, but the diagnosis can be difficult because the signs and symptoms can vary widely and there are no pathognomonic findings.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cervical Vertebrae*
  • Decompression, Surgical
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disease Progression
  • Humans
  • Laminectomy
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / surgery
  • Spinal Fusion
  • Spinal Osteophytosis / diagnosis*
  • Spinal Osteophytosis / surgery