Black Hole Area on Cervical Spine

[bonbon395]

Why does my cervical spine look like it has a black hole??  I had two prior anterior cervical fusions at C5-6, with the last one about 6 years ago.

[bonbon395]

The reason for the second surgery was a failed fusion at C5-6.  The screws were backing out and I was in a lot of pain.

The black area appears to be in the area of the plate and screws.  

Does this still sound like dura mater?

Thank you.

[DrNavneetMD]

Hi Dear,

What has been the reason for second operation?
The black region may be the healed dura mater, which is the hard covering of the nerves and spinal cord. Usually, there is no problem during surgery. However, occasionally either the stitches will not hold, or there could be a small unrecognized tear, and leakage could occur. If that should happen, we may take you back to surgery and to another operation to sew up the hole in the dura. Usually this is not a major complication, but you need to be aware of this so that if it does occur it will not be a major shock or surprise to you.

Take care