Cervical disc herniation occurs when disc material protrudes or extrudes into the spinal canal or neural foramina, resulting in compression of cervical nerve roots or the spinal cord. This condition may present with radiculopathy, myelopathy, or a combination of both and carries a higher risk of neurological compromise compared to lumbar disc disease.

Clinical features include neck pain radiating to the shoulder or upper limb, sensory disturbances, motor weakness, and altered reflexes. When spinal cord compression occurs, patients may develop gait instability, hand clumsiness, and upper motor neuron signs, indicating cervical myelopathy. These findings necessitate timely neurosurgical evaluation.

Diagnosis relies on neurological examination and high-resolution imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging provides detailed assessment of disc pathology, spinal cord compression, and signal changes suggestive of myelopathy. Clinical correlation is critical to determine urgency and surgical approach.

Surgical management is indicated in patients with progressive neurological deficits, myelopathy, or persistent radiculopathy unresponsive to conservative treatment. Surgical objectives include decompression of neural structures and restoration of spinal alignment. Procedure selection depends on pathology location, spinal stability, and patient-specific factors.

Modern cervical spine surgery employs microsurgical techniques and intraoperative monitoring to enhance safety. Postoperative care emphasizes neurological monitoring and functional recovery.

Cervical disc herniation requiring surgery is a potentially disabling condition that benefits from timely neurosurgical intervention and structured follow-up.