Cervical Disc Herniation in the Elderly
Question: Is cervical disc herniation common at advanced age?
Answer: It is less common after age 70; when present it is usually associated with:
- Long-standing degeneration
- Osteophytes (calcification)
- Osteoporosis
Question: What should be considered in treatment?
Answer:
- Bone quality (osteoporosis)
- Accompanying chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes)
- Degree of nerve compression
Because postoperative complication rates can be higher in older patients compared with younger ones, patient selection and planning are critically important.