Abstract
Minimally invasive techniques were initially limited to decompressive procedures. Over time, these techniques have been adapted and can now be used for instrumentation and arthrodesis. Minimally invasive posterior cervical fusion can be used in the acute setting for traumatic conditions as well as for chronic degenerative cervical spondylotic myelopathy of the atlantoaxial and subaxial spine. In the properly selected patient, these techniques reduce approach-related complications, blood loss, and postoperative pain while preserving the efficacy of open posterior cervical fusions. Therefore, minimally invasive posterior cervical fusion should be a skill that all complex spine surgeons should be able to perform.