After receiving a cervical discectomy, many patients find that their neck mobility has been reduced. Cervical disc replacement is one way to restore flexibility. This procedure replaces the missing disc with a medical implant, allowing a complete range of motion. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides spinal procedures near you in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Here, we discuss disc replacement surgery and its benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Cervical spinal discs act as cushions between neck vertebrae. They can be susceptible to many conditions, including degenerative disc disease or disc herniation.
- Cervical discectomy is the standard treatment for cervical disc conditions.
- Cervical disc replacement restores mobility after a discectomy, letting patients return to their active lifestyles.
What Is a Cervical Disc?
Cervical discs are pads of rubbery tissue with a soft gel-filled core, which serve as shock absorbers between the vertebrae of the neck. The cervical spine contains seven vertebrae, or spinal bones. Each pair of vertebrae is separated by a spinal disc. The discs cushion the vertebrae against damage from impact. A disc’s flexible construction also allows for mobility between vertebrae, letting the spine bend and flex.
Spinal discs are about 80% water at birth. Over a person’s lifespan, however, discs start to dehydrate as water is lost without being replaced. Advanced disc dehydration is known as cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD). Degenerated discs cannot absorb shock effectively. A strong impact may cause cervical disc herniation, where the soft nucleus bursts through the outer layer. The leaking nucleus inflames nearby tissue and compresses the spinal cord, causing intense pain.
What Is Cervical Disc Replacement?
Cervical disc replacement is one of the options for stabilizing the spine after a cervical discectomy. Cervical discectomy is the standard treatment for disc conditions like cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD)Â or herniation. The procedure involves removing all or most of the damaged disc. With the disc gone, the spine lacks its previous support. A second procedure must be performed to restore stability.
Cervical disc replacement works by inserting an artificial implant into the space created by the missing disc. Replacement discs are ball-and-socket devices made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. Each device features a pair of brackets that are affixed to the adjacent vertebrae. Between the brackets is a rounded insert that provides mobility, letting patients bend and twist as flexibly as they could before surgery.
Replacement vs. Fusion: Which Is Best?
Cervical spinal fusion is the traditional treatment for disc problems. This procedure treats pain by removing the problematic disc and fusing the vertebrae together into a single bone. Disc replacement is an innovative option to spinal fusion that offers several advantages:
- Better mobility: Unlike fusion, which eliminates mobility between the fused vertebrae, cervical spinal fusion preserves the spine’s original flexibility.
- Faster recovery: Bone grafts take time to grow into new bone. Disc replacement does not require fusion, allowing for a faster recovery.
- Longer-lasting results: Spinal fusion can stress the discs above and below the site, causing wear and tear. Disc replacement avoids this issue for long-lasting relief.
Disc replacement is not superior in all situations, however. Results are less stable than the results of a spinal fusion. This means the procedure cannot be performed on multiple levels of the spine without causing instability. If the patient’s DDD is extensive, then spinal fusion may be the more reliable option. Disc replacement also cannot address spinal misalignment. Disc herniation caused by a spinal deformity or alignment issue can be treated only with a fusion.
Who Should Receive Cervical Disc Replacement?
Ultimately, the best option between spinal fusion and disc replacement depends on a variety of factors. Surgeons consider the extent and severity of the patient’s condition, their age and lifestyle, their imaging results, and their overall physical health before coming to a decision. Patients can speak to NU-Spine surgeons, Dr. Branko Skorvrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock, to learn more about whether they are a good candidate for disc replacement.
Learn More About Cervical Disc Replacement Near You in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida
If you are struggling with neck pain, don’t delay your treatment. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, where we provide cutting-edge procedures like cervical disc replacement to help patients return to their active lifestyles. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment at one of our locations near you in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Florida.
Cervical Disc Replacement FAQ
Can I get a disc replacement if I already had a discectomy?
A disc replacement can be performed after a discectomy, but it cannot be performed after spinal fusion.
How many spine levels can be treated with cervical disc replacement?
Only one or two levels of the spine should be treated with disc replacement.
How soon can I drive or go back to work after cervical disc replacement?
Most patients can drive or perform office work within a few weeks after surgery, though it may take longer before you can resume a physically strenuous job.