Where you will be seen
All care takes place at our Fresno office and in Fresno for surgery. There is no CVA Spine location in Bakersfield or anywhere else in Kern County. If you choose us, you will be making the trip up Highway 99.
That is a real commitment, and it is worth saying plainly that Bakersfield has spine surgeons of its own. Adventist Health Bakersfield, for example, lists spine care among its services. People from Kern County who come to us are often looking for a second opinion, or they want to talk with a surgeon about whether they are a candidate for disc replacement instead of a fusion.
Disc replacement versus fusion
Both operations start the same way. The surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck, removes the damaged disc and takes pressure off the nerve or the spinal cord.
In a fusion, often called ACDF, the two bones are then joined so they heal into one solid piece. In cervical disc replacement, an artificial disc goes into the space instead. It is designed to move, so the neck can keep bending and turning at that level.
A fusion is a good operation and is still the better choice for many people. Disc replacement is usually considered for one or two levels, in a spine that is stable, with bones that are strong enough and without heavy arthritis in the small joints at the back of the neck. Your MRI and x-rays answer most of those questions.
Who from Kern County asks about it
The typical story is arm pain, tingling or weakness that started in the neck, often from a cervical herniated disc. Others have disc wear in the neck that has narrowed the space around a nerve.
Some of the work common around Bakersfield, like long hours behind the wheel on oil field service routes or pruning in vineyards and orchards, keeps the head and neck in one position for a long time. Neck motion matters for those jobs. That is one reason people ask about an option designed to keep motion at the treated level. Whether it fits you is a medical question, not a job question, and we will be honest about it.
Recovery and risks
Recovery from neck disc replacement is usually shorter than from a lower back fusion, but it is still surgery. A sore throat and some trouble swallowing are common for a short time because the surgeon works past the throat to reach the spine. Most people are up and walking the same day.
Risks include infection, bleeding, trouble swallowing, voice changes and injury to a nerve or the spinal cord. The disc can also shift or wear over time, and some people need more surgery later. We go through each of these at the consult so you can weigh them with your family before you decide.
Common questions from Bakersfield
Is disc replacement available closer to Bakersfield?
You may be able to find it closer to home, and it is fine to ask your local surgeon. Some people still want a second surgeon's view before they decide. We are glad to be that second look.
Can I get my MRI done in Bakersfield first?
Yes. Most people have imaging done near home. Ask the hospital or imaging center to send the images to our office before your visit, and bring a copy on disc just in case.
How will I get home after neck surgery?
Many people leave Fresno Surgical Hospital the same day or after one night there. You will need an adult to drive you. Turning your head may be sore for a while, so a passenger seat with a small pillow is more comfortable for a two hour ride.
How many trips should I expect?
Usually a consultation, surgery day and several follow-up visits. If you bring your imaging to the first visit, we can often cover the exam and imaging review together, which saves a trip.