Cervical Disc Replacement
Cervical disc replacement is an advanced motion-preserving surgery that relieves nerve pain while maintaining natural neck movement. This FDA-approved procedure uses artificial disc technology to restore function without the limitations of fusion.
Why Greenberg Spine
Dr. Marc Greenberg's fellowship training at Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, and Brown University, combined with our focus on robotics, endoscopy, and motion-preserving philosophy, ensures you receive the most advanced outpatient spine care available.
Indications
- Cervical radiculopathy with arm pain and numbness
- Single-level disc herniation or degeneration
- Preserved facet joints and spinal alignment
- Failed conservative treatment for 6+ weeks
- Good bone quality and no significant arthritis
How the Procedure Works
- Small anterior neck incision (2-3 cm) for direct disc access
- Complete removal of damaged disc material and bone spurs
- Precise sizing and placement of FDA-approved artificial disc
- Real-time X-ray guidance ensures optimal positioning
- Immediate restoration of disc height and nerve decompression
Benefits
- Preserves natural neck motion and flexibility
- Reduces adjacent level stress compared to fusion
- Faster return to normal activities
- No bone graft or collar required
- Outpatient surgery in most cases
Risks & Considerations
- Infection, bleeding, or anesthesia risks
- Temporary hoarseness or swallowing difficulty
- Implant wear or loosening over time
- Possible need for revision surgery
- Not suitable for all cervical conditions
Recovery Timeline
Day 0 (Surgery Day)
Outpatient procedure, home same day in most cases
Week 1-2
Light activities, no lifting >10 lbs, gentle neck motion encouraged
Week 4-6
Return to desk work, driving when comfortable, physical therapy begins
3 Months
Full activities, sports clearance, complete motion restoration
Ideal Candidates
- Age 18-60 with single-level cervical disc disease
- Good bone quality without significant osteoporosis
- Preserved facet joints and normal alignment
- Active lifestyle with desire to maintain motion
- Realistic expectations about outcomes
Alternatives
- Physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
- Cervical epidural steroid injections
- ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion)
- Cervical foraminotomy (motion-preserving decompression)
Conservative Options
Before considering surgery, Dr. Greenberg typically recommends a comprehensive conservative approach including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and targeted injections. Surgery is only recommended when conservative treatments have been exhausted and symptoms significantly impact quality of life.
What to Expect
- Pre-op visit: Imaging review, surgical planning, and consent
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia with airway monitoring
- Incision size: 2-3 cm anterior neck incision
- Discharge plan: Same-day discharge in most cases
- First follow-up: 2 weeks post-surgery with X-rays
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cervical disc replacement last?
FDA-approved artificial discs are designed to last decades with proper care and regular follow-up.
Can I return to sports after disc replacement?
Most patients can return to low-impact activities and many sports after full recovery, typically 3-6 months.
Is disc replacement better than fusion?
For appropriate candidates, disc replacement preserves motion and may reduce adjacent level stress compared to fusion.
What is the success rate?
Clinical studies show excellent outcomes with over 90% patient satisfaction and significant pain reduction.
Will I need future surgery?
While artificial discs are designed to last long-term, some patients may need revision surgery years later.
Related Procedures
Evidence Snapshot
Research-Backed Benefits
- Disc replacement maintains natural motion while eliminating pain
- Studies show reduced adjacent segment disease vs fusion
- Patient satisfaction rates exceed 85% at 5-year follow-up
- Faster return to athletic activities compared to fusion
Clinical Evidence
- FDA-approved devices with over 15 years of clinical data
- Range of motion preservation documented in long-term studies
- Complication rates comparable to ACDF in experienced hands
Evidence & Research — FAQs
Does disc replacement really reduce adjacent segment disease?
Multiple studies show disc replacement reduces adjacent segment degeneration compared to fusion. The preserved motion distributes stress more naturally across cervical levels, though long-term data continues to evolve.
How long do artificial discs last?
Current generation devices show excellent durability with 15+ year follow-up data. Wear rates are minimal, and revision rates remain low. Most patients maintain functional motion throughout long-term studies.
What does research show about return to sports after disc replacement?
Studies demonstrate most patients return to recreational sports including golf, tennis, and swimming. The preserved motion allows more natural neck movement compared to fusion, facilitating athletic activities.
Are outcomes better with disc replacement vs ACDF?
Research shows comparable pain relief and neurological improvement between disc replacement and ACDF. The main advantage of disc replacement is motion preservation and potentially lower adjacent segment disease rates in properly selected patients.
Who is NOT a good candidate for disc replacement?
Evidence suggests patients with significant facet arthritis, osteoporosis, instability, or multi-level disease may achieve better outcomes with fusion. Dr. Greenberg uses imaging and clinical findings to determine the best approach for each patient.
Summaries reflect current literature; individual results vary.
Why Motion Preservation Matters
Fellowship training and research drive our commitment to motion-preserving techniques
Natural Movement
Cervical disc replacement maintains the natural movement patterns of your neck, allowing you to turn, bend, and flex as you did before your spine condition developed.
- Preserves cervical range of motion
- Reduces stress on adjacent segments
- Faster return to normal activities
Long-term Benefits
By preserving motion, disc replacement may reduce the risk of adjacent segment disease - a condition where levels above or below a fusion develop problems over time.
Ready to Preserve Your Neck Motion?
Schedule a consultation to determine if cervical disc replacement is right for you.
Related Information
Information is educational, not medical advice. Outcomes vary. Consult Dr. Greenberg for personalized evaluation and treatment recommendations.