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Cervical Conditions in Carmel, IN Cervical Deformity

Introduction to Cervical Deformity

Understanding Abnormal Curvature and Alignment of the Neck

Cervical deformity refers to the abnormal curvature or misalignment of the cervical spine, which can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and neurological problems. The cervical spine is the uppermost portion of the spinal column and contains seven vertebrae. It is critical for neck flexibility and ease of movement.

At the Indiana Spine Group and affiliated hospitals in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, Dr. Peter Swiatek performs evidence-based procedures to restore well-being, comfort, and overall quality of life. If you have been diagnosed with a cervical deformity, don’t delay in calling our office today to set up an informative consultation.

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What Is Cervical Deformity?

The spine consists of 33 small bones called vertebrae that make up the spinal column. This structure is then divided into 5 regions: Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccyx. The cervical spine consists of the first 7 vertebrae and supports the neck and head. When abnormalities arise in the alignment, shape, or formation of the cervical vertebrae, the condition is referred to as cervical deformity.

Cervical deformities can negatively affect posture, breathing, flexibility, and the ability to perform everyday tasks, and can also cause ongoing pain and discomfort. The most common causes of the condition include:

  • Injury or trauma
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Degeneration from aging and wear and tear

What Are Some of the Signs of Cervical Deformity

Symptoms of cervical deformity emerge gradually and get worse with time. They may include:

  • Neck pain
  • Weakness in the arms, hands, feet, or legs
  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities
  • Problems balancing and walking
  • Bladder or bowel issues
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Shortness of breath

Cervical Deformity Treatments We Offer

Dr. Swiatek usually only performs surgery for cervical deformity after he has exhausted conservative treatments like physical therapy, pain management, and bracing when indicated. The goal of surgery is to correct spinal alignment, reduce pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, and improve overall stability. Treatment options include:

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): This procedure involves removing the damaged intervertebral disc to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Dr. Swiatek then fuses the adjacent vertebrae using a bone graft or a spacer, typically secured with a plate and screws.
  • Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF): During this neck procedure, Dr. Swiatek removes a portion of the damaged vertebra and disc to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. This is followed by bone grafting with a spacer and placement of a metal plate with screws.
  • Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion (PCDF): In this technique, the doctor performs neck surgery from the back to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Metal screws and rods are introduced to increase stability.
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How to Begin Your Cervical Deformity Treatment Journey

Diagnosis of cervical deformity is the first step toward improved mobility, comfort, and peace of mind. Dr. Swiatek will conduct a detailed review of your medical and surgical history, along with a thorough physical assessment and neurological examination. Diagnostic tools include:

  1. A CT scan to show the shape, size, and contents of the spinal canal and surrounding structures
  2. An MRI to gain a detailed view of the nerve roots, spinal cord, degeneration, and enlargement
  3. X-rays to reveal the vertebral structures and joints
  4. An EMG may be indicated to rule out certain conditions such as peripheral neuropathy

During your initial consultation in the Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, or Kokomo, Indiana, area, Dr. Swiatek will answer all your questions, curate an individualized treatment plan, and provide guidelines to follow before and after surgery. He will also discuss the risks, benefits, downtime, costs, and projected results for your surgery.

What to Expect During Your Cervical Deformity Surgery

Dr. Swiatek performs cervical deformity surgery with precision and skill, ensuring a seamless and safety-oriented treatment process. Once you are settled and relaxed, you will be given general anesthesia, allowing you to fall into a deep sleep and feel no pain or discomfort throughout your surgery. Dr. Swiatek will then operate through the front (anterior) of the neck, the back (posterior), or both, depending on the location of the cervical curve. Moving the muscles aside, he will remove damaged discs or bone, improve vertebral alignment, and secure stability by implanting metal plates, rods, and screws.

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Steps to Consider For Optimal Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Cervical Deformity Care

Following surgery in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, or Kokomo, Indiana, for cervical deformity, patients will require ample time to heal and regain strength, flexibility, and function. Recovery time varies based on the type of intervention Dr. Swiatek performs. In general, patients can expect the following steps:

  • Rest and pain management: Patients must avoid strenuous movement for several weeks. Dr. Swiatek will prescribe oral painkillers to help manage soreness, and ice or heat therapy can also be used in the early phase of healing. Patients may be required to wear a soft or hard neck brace after surgery for a short period of time.
  • Physical therapy: Patients can begin physical therapy after the initial recovery period. The patient will be guided through a series of exercises and stretches to enhance mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength. This helps patients return to an active lifestyle more quickly.
  • Regular follow-up sessions: Ongoing follow-up visits with Dr. Swiatek ensure proper stabilization after surgery. The doctor will continue imaging studies, such as X-rays, to ensure healing stays on track.

How Much Does Cervical Deformity Treatment Cost in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana?

Pricing for cervical deformity treatment in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, can vary based on the specific interventions Dr. Swiatek performs and your specific insurance plan. Our billing department may provide more information about the cost of surgery.

Philosophy

Why Choose Dr. Swiatek?

Dr. Peter Swiatek is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon who treats diseases and disorders of the spine, including disc herniations, degenerative disease of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, trauma, tumors, and spinal deformity. He also excels in providing customized solutions after failed spine surgeries and revision spine procedures, helping patients reclaim their quality of life.

Dr. Swiatek designs each surgical plan around individual needs, choosing conservative solutions whenever possible. When surgery is necessary, he relies on evidence-backed interventions that support patient well-being, mobility, comfort, and a full return to an active lifestyle.​

Committed to patient safety, Dr. Swiatek has extensive expertise in cutting-edge technologies and treatment modalities in spine surgery. From using robotics to increase surgical precision to performing motion-preservation (non-fusion) procedures, Dr. Swiatek ensures you receive access to today’s most innovative solutions.

Training Background

Dr. Swiatek graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University with a degree in neurobiology. He then graduated with honors from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI, where he made it onto the Dean’s commendation list for excellence in clinical skills.

Dr. Swiatek completed orthopedic surgery training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL, ranked among the nation’s most prestigious orthopedic and neurosurgical spine centers. Post-residency, Dr. Swiatek was selected for a competitive spine surgery fellowship at the world-renowned Rothman Institute and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.

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Case Studies

He also specializes in repairing failed spine surgeries and revision spine procedures. Dr. Swiatek tailors his treatment plans to the needs of each of his patients, with a focus on non-operative management whenever possible. When surgery is necessary.

View Case Studies

Patient Reviews

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“From my first consultation, I felt listened to and never rushed. The doctor clearly explained my options

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