Cervical Disc Replacement

Cervical disc replacement, also known as total disc arthroplasty, involves removing a damaged or degenerated cervical disc and replacing it with an artificial disc. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1-C7), with discs acting as cushions between them, providing flexibility and absorbing shock. When a disc becomes damaged due to wear and tear, trauma, or disease, it can lead to neck pain, stiffness, and nerve compression, causing radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and hands.

Cervical disc replacement aims to alleviate pain and restore normal motion by replacing the affected disc with a prosthetic implant. This helps maintain natural neck movement and reduces the risk of adjacent segment disease, a condition in which excessive strain is placed on nearby vertebrae and discs following spinal fusion surgery.

The artificial disc used in cervical disc replacement is typically made of medical-grade metals, such as titanium or cobalt-chromium alloy, and durable plastic materials like medical-grade polyethylene. These materials are biocompatible, meaning they integrate well with the body and minimize the risk of rejection or adverse reactions. The prosthetic disc is designed to mimic the function of a natural disc by allowing controlled motion while providing stability and support.

Patients suffering from chronic neck pain, nerve compression, or reduced mobility due to cervical disc degeneration may benefit from cervical disc replacement. Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

• Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease, herniated cervical disc, or cervical radiculopathy confirmed through imaging (MRI, CT scan, or X-ray).
• Persistent neck pain, arm pain, or neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness despite conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections.
• One or two affected cervical disc levels (typically C3-C7).
• No significant instability, fractures, infections, or spinal deformities.
• A desire to maintain natural cervical spine motion without undergoing spinal fusion.

Not all patients are candidates for disc replacement. Those with advanced arthritis, severe spinal deformities, osteoporosis, or multiple levels of degeneration may require alternative treatments, such as fusion or decompression surgery.

Cervical disc replacement is performed using a minimally invasive approach, which helps reduce recovery time and postoperative discomfort. The procedure generally follows these steps:

1. Anesthesia and incision – The patient is placed under general anesthesia. A small incision is made at the front of the neck to access the cervical spine.
2. Removal of the damaged disc – The affected disc is carefully removed, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
3. Placement of the artificial disc – A prosthetic disc is inserted into the space, mimicking the function of a natural disc.
4. Closure and recovery – The incision is closed, and the patient is monitored in the recovery area before being discharged, often within 24 hours.

The surgery typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement soon after surgery to prevent stiffness and complications.