Cervical Disc Replacement

When a damaged or herniated disc in the neck puts pressure on a nerve or the spinal cord, it can cause neck pain, arm pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. When nonsurgical treatments are no longer providing relief, cervical disc replacement may be an option for certain patients.

Cervical disc replacement, also called cervical disc arthroplasty, removes the damaged disc and replaces it with an artificial disc designed to maintain movement between the vertebrae.

At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, each patient is evaluated individually to determine whether cervical disc replacement, fusion or another treatment approach is most appropriate.

What Is Cervical Disc Replacement?

The discs between the vertebrae of your neck act as cushions while allowing your cervical spine to move.

When one of these discs becomes damaged or degenerates, it can put pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord. During cervical disc replacement surgery, the damaged disc is removed, pressure on the affected nerves is relieved, and an artificial disc is placed in the space.

Unlike a spinal fusion, which joins two vertebrae together, an artificial disc is designed to allow movement at the treated level.

Cervical Disc Replacement vs. Cervical Fusion

Both cervical disc replacement and cervical fusion can be used to treat certain conditions affecting the cervical spine.

One of the primary differences is motion.

During a cervical fusion, the affected vertebrae are stabilized so that they eventually grow together. Cervical disc replacement instead uses an artificial disc designed to maintain motion at that level of the spine.

Disc replacement is not appropriate for every patient. Depending on the condition of the spine, the number of levels involved, bone quality, arthritis, spinal stability and other factors, a fusion or another treatment may be recommended.

A spine specialist can review your imaging, symptoms, lifestyle and treatment goals to help determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Who May Be a Candidate for Cervical Disc Replacement?

Cervical disc replacement may be considered for patients with conditions such as a damaged or herniated cervical disc that is causing compression of a nerve or the spinal cord.

Symptoms may include:

• Neck pain
• Pain traveling into the shoulder, arm or hand
• Numbness or tingling
• Arm or hand weakness
• Symptoms related to compression of the spinal cord

Surgery is generally considered after appropriate nonsurgical treatment has not provided enough relief, although some neurologic symptoms may require earlier evaluation.

Not everyone experiencing neck or arm pain will be a candidate for disc replacement. A spine evaluation and appropriate imaging are necessary to determine which treatment options may be appropriate.

Potential Benefits of Cervical Disc Replacement

For appropriately selected patients, cervical disc replacement offers several potential benefits.

One of the primary goals is to relieve pressure on the affected nerves while maintaining motion at the treated portion of the cervical spine.

Because there is no need for the vertebrae to fuse together, recovery and postoperative restrictions may also differ from cervical fusion.

Every patient’s recovery and results are different, and your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits and risks based on your individual condition.

What Is Recovery Like?

Recovery following cervical disc replacement varies based on the patient, the condition being treated and the type of work or activities they plan to return to.

Many patients are encouraged to begin walking soon after surgery and gradually increase their activity as healing progresses.

Your care team will provide specific instructions regarding returning to work, lifting, driving, exercise and other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cervical disc replacement better than fusion?

Neither procedure is the right choice for every patient. Cervical disc replacement preserves movement at the treated level, while fusion stabilizes the spine by joining two vertebrae together. Your diagnosis, anatomy and other factors help determine which approach is most appropriate.

How do I know if I am a candidate?

Determining candidacy generally requires a spine examination and review of imaging. Your physician will also consider your symptoms, previous treatments, overall spine health and other medical factors.

Can cervical disc replacement treat more than one level?

In some patients, cervical disc replacement may be considered at more than one level. The number and location of affected discs, along with the overall condition of the cervical spine, help determine whether this is an appropriate option.

How quickly can I return to work?

Return-to-work timelines vary depending on the procedure, your recovery and the physical demands of your job. Your surgeon will provide individualized recommendations following surgery.

Do I need surgery for a herniated cervical disc?

Not necessarily. Many cervical spine conditions can initially be treated without surgery. Surgery may be considered when symptoms continue despite appropriate nonsurgical treatment or when certain neurologic symptoms are present.