Corpectomy

{{Short description|Surgical removal of all or part of a vertebra}}

{{Infobox interventions |

Name = Corpectomy |

Image = Corpectomy.png|

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ICD10 = |

ICD9 = {{ICD9proc|80.99}} |

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OPS301 = |

synonyms = Vertebrectomy|

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A corpectomy or vertebrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing all or part of the vertebral body (Latin: corpus vertebrae, hence the name corpectomy), usually as a way to decompress the spinal cord and nerves. Corpectomy is often performed in association with some form of discectomy.{{cite web|url = http://umm.edu/programs/spine/health/guides/cervical-corpectomy| website = UMM.edu | title = Cervical Corpectomy|publisher = University of Maryland Medical Center | date = 17 June 2013 | accessdate = 13 February 2013}}

When the vertebral body has been removed, the surgeon performs a vertebral fusion. Because a space in the column remains from the surgery, it must be filled using a block of bone taken from the pelvis or one of the leg bones or with a manufactured component such as a cage. This bone graft holds the remaining vertebrae apart. As it heals, the vertebrae grow together and fuse.