Cervical foraminotomy is a minimally invasive operation to enlarge the nerve exit hole (foramen) in the neck, relieving pressure on a pinched nerve root without the need for fusion or disc replacement.
A small incision is made at the back of the neck. Using a microscope or tubular retractor, the surgeon removes a small amount of bone and ligament from the foramen to free the compressed nerve root. The disc is not removed and no fusion or implant is needed. The operation takes 45-90 minutes.
Foraminotomy is suitable for foraminal stenosis or lateral disc herniation causing arm pain (radiculopathy) from a single nerve root. It is an alternative to ACDF that avoids fusion and preserves all neck movement.
Physiotherapy, pain medication, cervical epidural injection, and time. ACDF or disc replacement are surgical alternatives.
MRI and CT to confirm foraminal stenosis. Day-case or overnight procedure.
Relief of arm pain in approximately 90% of patients. Preservation of neck movement at the treated level. No fusion-related complications.
Temporary posterior neck soreness from muscle retraction.
Some patients have persistent numbness that improves slowly.
Risk approximately 1%.
Very rare with posterior approach.
The nerve may become compressed again over time.
Excessive bone removal could theoretically cause instability. Very rare with proper technique.
Wound infection.
General anaesthesia. Positioned prone or sitting.
Most patients go home the same day or next day. Return to desk work within one to two weeks. Driving at one to two weeks. No brace required. Full recovery four to six weeks.
Review at six weeks. Further follow-up only if needed.
Foraminotomy avoids fusion, preserves movement, and has no risk of adjacent segment disease. It is ideal for lateral pathology but not suitable for central disc herniations or spinal cord compression.