Anesthetic considerations in the treatment of cervical myelopathy.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The safe surgical treatment of patients with severe cervical spondylotic myelopathy involves a team approach incorporating special anesthetic considerations. This patient population is more vulnerable to perioperative complications. Advanced age, prolonged periods of immobility, multiple medical co-morbidities, and the risk of worsening neurologic injury mandate that the anesthesiologist pay special attention in the preoperative, induction, surgical, and recovery phases.

PURPOSE: To review the literature regarding the anesthetic management of patients undergoing surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

CONCLUSION

A basic understanding of the pathophysiology of cervical myelopathy as well as the nuances of the surgical treatment plan can help to ensure safe and effective patient management.