Anterior cervical decompression and fusion

Abstract

The patient was identified by the Anesthesia Team and brought to the main operating room. General anesthetic was administered via the endotracheal tube, and 1 g of Ancef was administered via the IV. The patient was then transferred to the Jackson table where Gardner-Wells tongs were applied. The patient was placed in 7 lb. of traction. The shoulders were taped distally, and the neck was positioned in neutral to slight extension. The patient was then prepped and draped in the standard surgical fashion. Somatosensory evoked potentials were performed throughout the procedure. There was a good wave form, and there were no changes noted by the technician. An anterior approach to the neck was performed from the left side at approximately the level of C5.