From the Guidelines
Compressive cervical myelopathy is located in the cervical spine, specifically affecting the spinal cord in the neck region, and is most commonly caused by degenerative disease, such as spondylotic myelopathy, which is more prevalent in this region 1.
Location and Causes
The cervical spine, comprising vertebrae C1 through C7, is the specific location where compressive cervical myelopathy occurs, leading to neurological dysfunction due to compression or pinching of the spinal cord. This condition is often a result of degenerative changes, including disc herniation, bone spurs (osteophytes), ligament thickening, or spinal stenosis, with the most common sites of compression being at the C5-C6 and C6-C7 levels 1.
Clinical Significance
The location of compressive cervical myelopathy in the cervical spine is particularly significant because this region houses nerve pathways that control both upper and lower limb function, making compression here potentially more debilitating than in other spinal regions 1.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Early identification of the exact location of compression through imaging studies like MRI is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, as it allows for targeted interventions to relieve the compression and prevent further neurological deterioration 1.
Key Points
- Compressive cervical myelopathy is primarily located in the cervical spine.
- Degenerative diseases, such as spondylotic myelopathy, are the most common causes.
- The C5-C6 and C6-C7 levels are the most frequent sites of compression.
- Early diagnosis via MRI is essential for effective treatment planning.
From the Research
Location of Compressive Cervical Myelopathy
- Compressive cervical myelopathy is located in the cervical spine, which is the part of the spine in the neck region, specifically between the levels of the C1 and T1 vertebrae 2.
- The cervicothoracic junction, which is the region where the cervical and thoracic spine meet, is also a common location for compressive cervical myelopathy 3.
- The condition can affect the spinal cord or nerve roots at one or several levels in the cervical spine, producing direct damage and often secondary ischemic changes 4.
Key Characteristics
- Compressive cervical myelopathy is characterized by compression of the cervical spinal cord or nerve roots by varying degrees and number of levels 4.
- The decrease in diameter of the vertebral canal secondary to disc degeneration and osteophytic spurs compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots, producing direct damage and often secondary ischemic changes 4.
- The condition can be caused by spondylosis or by ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, and is often associated with degenerative changes of the spine 5, 4.