About Craniovertebral Junction Surgery
Key Highlights
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Addresses life-threatening instability at the skull-spine junction.Relieves compression on the brainstem and spinal cord to prevent or reverse neurological damage.Utilizes advanced surgical navigation and instrumentation for precision.Aims to provide permanent stabilization and pain relief.Performed by highly trained neurosurgeons with sub-specialty expertise.
Who is this surgery for?
- Congenital malformations like basilar invagination or atlantoaxial dislocation.
- Traumatic injuries (fractures or ligament tears) to the upper cervical spine.
- Tumors (primary or metastatic) affecting the CVJ bones or surrounding tissues.
- Inflammatory or degenerative conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Progressive neurological symptoms like limb weakness, numbness, or loss of balance.
- Severe, intractable neck pain or headaches due to CVJ instability.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive neurological examination and detailed imaging (CT, MRI, X-rays).
- Pre-operative assessments including cardiac and pulmonary function tests.
- Discussion of medical history, allergies, and current medications (some may need to be stopped).
- Informed consent process detailing the procedure, risks, and alternatives.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before surgery as instructed.
- Arranging for post-operative support and transportation.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site or in the deeper tissues (meningitis).
- Bleeding (hemorrhage) or formation of a hematoma.
- Damage to neural structures, potentially worsening neurological function.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.
- Failure of the bone fusion (pseudoarthrosis).
- Hardware (screw/plate) malposition, breakage, or loosening.
- Swallowing or voice difficulties due to nerve manipulation.
- Rare risks of stroke, spinal cord injury, or death.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in an ICU or high-dependency unit for close monitoring.
- Wearing a rigid cervical collar (halo vest or hard collar) for several weeks to months for support.
- Pain management with prescribed medications.
- Gradual mobilization with physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
- Regular follow-up visits and imaging to check bone fusion and hardware position.
- Avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sudden neck movements as advised.
- Watching for signs of infection, new neurological symptoms, or severe pain and reporting them immediately.
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Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
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Expected recovery time: 3-6 months for initial recovery; up to 12 months for full bone fusion and activity resumption
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering craniovertebral junction surgery in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for craniovertebral junction surgery in Turkey include Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, Liv Hospital Ankara, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform craniovertebral junction surgery. MediFyr helps you compare neurosurgeons 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 craniovertebral junction surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 3,807 – USD 13,052 | 7-14 days | ~ 3-6 months for initial recovery; up to 12 months for full bone fusion and activity resumption | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 28,184 – USD 96,630 | 7-14 days | ~ 3-6 months for initial recovery; up to 12 months for full bone fusion and activity resumption | Know More |
Top hospitals for Craniovertebral Junction Surgery in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurosurgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing craniovertebral junction surgery.
At my age, you worry about...
At my age, you worry about being a bother. Dr. Narayanamurthy never made me feel that way. He explained my medication changes slowly, and his manner was very calming. The clinic at MGM was busy, but he took his time.
Neurosurgeons for Craniovertebral Junction Surgery
Explore experienced neurosurgeons who regularly perform craniovertebral junction surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.
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