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KMID : 0388720230300040154
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Journal of Korean Society of Spine Surgery
2023 Volume.30 No. 4 p.154 ~ p.160
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Cervical Radiculopathy: An Update on Its Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment
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Kim Sung-Soo
Choi Byung-Wan
Chang Won-June
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Abstract
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Objectives: To provide an update on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical radiculopathy based on a review of the recent literature.
Summary of Literature Review: Cervical radiculopathy is characterized by neurological dysfunction caused by compression and inflammation of the nerve roots of the cervical spine. It mainly presents with neck and arm pain, sensory loss, motor dysfunction according to the dermatomal distribution. It is important to determine the exact diagnosis. Surgery in applicable to patients with intractable pain despite sufficient conservative management or those with neurological deficits.
Materials and Methods: Review of the relevant articles.
Results: It is important to identify the exact symptomatic segment and distinguish it through various provocations in physical examinations and radiographs. The natural history of cervical radiculopathy is generally favorable, and conservative treatment is the first-line treatment. Representative surgical procedures are anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, cervical disc replacement, and posterior foraminotomy. Each procedure has strengths and weaknesses and is performed according to slightly different indications and contraindi-cations.
Conclusions: Thorough medical history taking and a physical examination, along with radiographic and electrodiagnostic studies, can help identify pathologies and decide on the appropriate treatment for patients with cervical radiculopathy.
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KEYWORD
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Cervical spine, Radiculopathy, Diagnosis, Treatment, Review
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