Complications in posterior cervical spine surgery

The posterior approach to the cervical spine has been described since the early 1900s and it is still commonly used to treat various cervical pathologies. It allows for an extensile exposure of the posterior cervical spine, and when employed for the correct indications it yields good results. However, there are various complications associated with this approach that can negatively impact patient outcomes. In general, avoiding complications is best achieved with careful diagnostic assessment, good patient selection and meticulous technical execution of the surgical procedure. This article reviews some of the most common complications following posterior cervical spine procedures.