Understanding the Cervical Discs

The discs in your neck act as cushions between the vertebrae. Each disc consists of a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like center. When a disc is damaged or worn out, the outer layer may tear, allowing the inner material to leak out and press on nearby nerves.

Benefits of Cervical Disc Replacement

Compared to spinal fusion, disc replacement is often preferred for several reasons:

• Preservation of Motion: The artificial disc mimics natural movement, allowing you to bend and twist your neck normally.
• Reduced Stress on Adjacent Discs: Maintaining normal motion reduces excessive pressure on discs above and below the treated level.
• Faster Recovery: Patients typically experience less postoperative pain and a quicker return to daily activities.
• Lower Risk of Future Surgeries: By preserving motion, the risk of adjacent segment degeneration is reduced.
• Patient Satisfaction: Many patients report high satisfaction due to effective pain relief and maintained neck flexibility.

Procedure Comparison

Movement through the cervical spine after disc replacement.

Movement through the cervical spine after ACDF surgery.

The Surgical Procedure

The procedure begins with a small (approximately 1-inch) incision at the front of the neck. The surgeon accesses the cervical spine by gently dissecting between the tissues without dividing them.

• Removing the Damaged Disc: The problematic disc is carefully removed under microscopic magnification to relieve nerve compression.
• Relieving Nerve Compression: The spinal cord and nerve roots are visualized and freed from any compressive fragments or bone spurs.
• Inserting an Artificial Disc: The removed disc is replaced with a custom-sized artificial disc made of metal and plastic, designed to mimic natural spinal movement.

Recovery

Most patients spend one night in the hospital. Recovery varies, but many experience immediate relief of nerve pain. Minor issues, such as swallowing difficulties and tightness in the neck, may persist for 3–4 weeks. A soft collar may be provided for comfort, though early gentle movement is encouraged. Postoperative instructions include avoiding strenuous activities to ensure proper healing.

Summary

Cervical disc replacement is preferred when feasible because it preserves natural neck motion, reduces stress on adjacent discs, accelerates recovery, and minimizes the need for future surgeries. The best choice depends on your individual circumstances—discuss all options with Prof Aaron Buckland to determine the optimal treatment for you.