Who is a candidate?
Cervical disc replacement may be considered for selected patients with nerve root or spinal cord compression from a worn or herniated disc, who have preserved alignment, reasonable bone quality, and no significant instability or advanced facet arthritis at the level. It suits people with symptoms coming from one or two levels rather than widespread degeneration. Candidacy is determined by examination and imaging together.
How the procedure works
Through a small incision at the front of the neck, the surgeon works between the natural tissue planes to reach the spine without cutting through muscle. The damaged disc is removed and the material pressing on the nerve or cord is cleared. An artificial disc is then placed into the space, sized to your anatomy and designed to move with the neck rather than lock it.
Recovery
Most people are up and walking the same day, and many go home the same day or the next. A collar is usually not needed. Soreness with swallowing for a few days is common and settles. Activity, driving, and return to work depend on the number of levels treated and the demands of your job; Dr. Adapa will give you specific milestones rather than generic timelines.
Benefits and alternatives
The intent of preserving motion is to keep the neck moving naturally and to reduce the additional load placed on neighbouring levels by a fusion. Alternatives include anterior decompression and fusion, posterior approaches, and continued non-operative care where symptoms allow. No operation is right for every anatomy, and a fusion is sometimes the more reliable answer.
Risks
Every spine operation carries risk, including infection, bleeding, nerve or spinal cord injury, hoarseness or swallowing difficulty, implant problems, and the possibility that symptoms do not fully resolve. Dr. Adapa reviews the risks specific to your anatomy and health in plain language before you decide.