How Depression Can Hinder Recovery After Neck Surgery

The Impact of Depression on Neck Surgery Outcomes

Depression is common in people with neck problems caused by wear and tear. It can make recovery harder after surgery, especially for a common neck operation called anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Before and After COVID-19

Before COVID-19, studies focused on how depression affects pain and hospital stays. However, with more people feeling depressed due to the pandemic, it's crucial to understand how it affects overall recovery.

Depression Slows Healing

Depression can:

• Slow down healing
• Make it harder to bounce back
• Impact quality of life

Broader Implications

Previous studies often focused on specific issues like pain or hospital stays. However, depression affects more than just pain—it impacts functionality and overall well-being.

Improving Treatment Plans

Patients with depression may need more care and support after surgery. Understanding this can help doctors:

• Improve treatment plans
• Help patients prepare for recovery