Motion Preservation Cervical Spine Surgery to Treat Cervical Radiculopathy in a Mixed Martial Arts World Champion: A Case Report.

CASE: Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Although rare, cervical spine injuries can occur in MMA athletes. We report a unique case of a professional MMA world champion that successfully underwent 2 motion preservation surgeries to treat cervical radiculopathy. The athlete was able to return to elite competition after both operations.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights that cervical spine motion preservation procedures can be used for safe and successful return to combat sports in the properly indicated patient.