Most common cervical spine complications

The most common complication following cervical spine surgery is an infection, according to the 2025 American Spine Registry, a product of a partnership between the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 

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The inaugural report reviewed procedures performed between 2015 and 2023, collecting data on 230,159 lumbar spine procedures, 112,683 cervical spine procedures and patient-reported outcome measures, according to a Feb. 20 news release.

Here are the eight most common cervical spine surgery complications and the share of incidents:

1. Infection: 59.1% 

2. Other: 15.9% 

3. Acute cardiac/pulmonary: 7.1% 

4. GI/Renal/Neuro: 6.9% 

5. Hematoma or wound complications: 5.5% 

6. Chronic cardiac/pulmonary: 3.7%

7. Postop/unspecified pain: 1.6%

8. Delirium: 0.2%

At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.

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