About Neck Injury
Key Highlights
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Specialized care tailored to the unique anatomy and growth plates of a child's cervical spine.Focus on both immediate stabilization and long-term developmental outcomes.Utilization of pediatric-specific immobilization devices (collars, braces, halo vests) for optimal fit and comfort.Multidisciplinary approach often involving neurologists, physiatrists, and physical therapists.Goal-oriented treatment to restore function, prevent deformity, and ensure safe return to activities.
Who is this surgery for?
- Confirmed cervical spine fracture (e.g., vertebral body, odontoid process) on imaging.
- Cervical spine dislocation or subluxation (misalignment of vertebrae).
- Significant ligamentous injury causing spinal instability.
- Neurological symptoms associated with neck trauma (numbness, weakness, tingling in limbs).
- Persistent neck pain and stiffness following trauma that does not resolve with conservative care.
- Spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA), a condition more common in children.
How to prepare
- Thorough clinical examination and detailed neurological assessment.
- Advanced imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to evaluate bone and soft tissue damage.
- Discussion of the treatment plan, including surgical vs. non-surgical options, with the child's parents/guardians.
- Pre-operative medical clearance if surgery is planned, which may include blood tests.
- Psychological preparation of the child for hospitalization and treatment, using age-appropriate explanations.
- Arranging for appropriate pediatric-sized surgical instruments and implants if needed.
Risks & possible complications
- General risks of anesthesia, especially tailored to pediatric patients.
- Infection at the surgical site or in the spine (osteomyelitis, discitis).
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Nerve injury or worsening of neurological function.
- Failure of bone fusion (non-union) or hardware (screws, plates) issues.
- Adjacent segment disease or long-term stiffness and pain.
- Complications related to prolonged immobilization, such as skin breakdown or muscle atrophy.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial period of strict immobilization with a brace, collar, or halo vest as prescribed.
- Pain management with medications safe for pediatric use.
- Gradual, supervised mobilization and physical therapy to restore neck range of motion and strength.
- Regular follow-up visits with X-rays to monitor healing and spinal alignment.
- Activity restrictions, especially contact sports, until cleared by the orthopedic surgeon.
- Ongoing neurological assessments to track functional recovery.
- Support for returning to school and normal childhood activities.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-5 days
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Expected recovery time: 6 weeks to 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering neck injury in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform neck injury. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for neck injury compare across other countries where we have data.
John Williams is a thoughtful 14-year-old...
John Williams is a thoughtful 14-year-old high school freshman and an avid mountain biker. He took a hard spill on a trail, hitting his head and neck on a rock. He presented with persistent neck pain, tingling in his fingers, and weakness in his right arm. Imaging showed a traumatic herniated disc at C5-C6, compressing a nerve root. Given the neurological symptoms, the pediatric orthopedic specialist, Dr. Chen, recommended an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) to relieve the pressure on the nerve and stabilize the segment. John was terrified of surgery on his spine but trusted his doctor's explanation. The procedure went smoothly. Post-op, he wore a soft cervical collar for six weeks and began occupational therapy to regain arm strength. His nerve symptoms resolved completely, and his neck pain diminished significantly. John's emotional path went from anxiety about permanent injury and missing his sport to relief and cautious optimism. He learned the importance of protective gear and now enjoys biking with a renewed sense of responsibility for his health.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Neck Injury
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform neck injury and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata