Cervical Myelopathy: Where Are We Now? Classification, Surgical Approaches, and Tips and Tricks to Stay Out of Trouble.

Degenerative cervical myelopathy continues to be an increasingly prevalent disease in the aging population. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent major neurologic disability, including paralysis. Awareness of the clinical manifestations of cervical myelopathy, including gait disturbance and upper extremity dysfunction, is critically important. Recognition of the symptoms and signs of cervical myelopathy that are often noted in the spine clinic can prompt referral for appropriate evaluation and treatment, leading to the prevention of future disability. Surgical treatment of cervical myelopathy has been extensively reported to not only halt progression but also improve various clinical signs and symptoms. Indications for surgery and ideal surgical options continue to be topics of debate. Myelopathy classification systems and state-of-the-art surgical treatments, including avoidance and management of complications, are important topics.